Albizia julibrissin silk tree

Mimosaceae plants are common and popular mainly in southern Europe for their high tolerance to drought as well as attractive and long lasting flowering. Even though they come from subtropical parts of the world there is one species hardy enough to be grown in our climate - silk tree.

Silk tree comes from Iran and is typical for its dome-shaped crown and pink flowers over a long period in summer. They are pink, hairy spheres with nearly white centres, 3-5 cm large and with a sweet fragrance. Fern-like leaves are deep green, compound. They close for the night and re-open in the morning, just like mimosa when touched. They emerge very late in spring. It is a fast growing, small to medium-sized tree with irregular, flat or umbrella-shaped, spreading crown. It needs warm, neutral to slightly alkaline, preferably poor or slightly fertile soil. Mulching is good for winter but in the summer it prefers direct sunlight onto the area above roots so it can collect as much warmth as possible for better flowering. Pruning is possible in early spring after all frosts. Do not cut deeper than about a third of previous year’s growth, otherwise it will not flower.

If the tree grows at its natural speed the branches will mature well and will not be damaged by frost. Its reliable hardiness is -25°C (USDA zone 6). Even if the branches are damaged by stronger frost it readily regenerates from healthy, even older wood.

Watch out for symptoms of a very dangerous disease – mimosa wilt disease. Read this article to follow instructions in case you spot them and we strongly suggest you do the procedure as prevention on annual basis.

Last update 14-11-2014.