Mimosa Tree / Persian Silk Tree
Albizia julibrissin · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Flowering, Invasive (in some regions)
Plant Family
Fabaceae (Legume family)
Tree Category
Flowering Tree, Ornamental, Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species (Albizia julibrissin)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9; sensitive to severe freezes but can resprout from roots if top-killed by cold.
About This Tree
A small to medium-sized tree with an umbrella-like, spreading canopy and delicate, fern-like foliage. Known for its showy, fragrant, pink 'puffy' flower clusters that resemble silk threads. It has a fast growth rate and a relatively short lifespan.
Leaf Characteristics
Bipinnately compound leaves, 10-20 inches long; leaflets are small (1/4 to 1/2 inch), oblong, and arranged in pairs. Foliage is dark green and has a light, feathery appearance. Leaves typically fold up at night or during rain (nyctinasty).
Bark Characteristics
The bark is thin, smooth, and light brown to gray. It remains relatively smooth even as the tree ages, though it may develop small lenticels or shallow fissures on very old specimens.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Southwestern and Eastern Asia (Iran to Japan); widely naturalized in the Southern United States.
Growing Season
Late leaf-out in spring (May); flowers from early summer through mid-summer (June-July); seeds mature in late summer; enters dormancy in late autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for best flowering; highly adaptable to various soil types. Prefers moderate moisture but is notably drought-tolerant once established. Tolerates alkaline soils and salty coastal air.
Mature Size
Reaches a height of 20-35 feet with a spread of 25-40 feet. Growth rate is very fast, often adding several feet per year, with a lifespan generally between 10-25 years.
Special Characteristics
Produces abundant pink, powder-puff flowers. High salt and drought tolerance. However, it is susceptible to Mimosa Wilt (Fusarium oxysporum) and is considered an invasive species in many parts of the U.S. due to prolific seed production.
Wildlife & Ecology
Highly attractive to hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees who feed on the nectar of the fragrant flowers. Provides light, dappled shade for understory plants. Seeds are occasionally eaten by birds and squirrels, aiding in its spread.