Albizia julibrissin, also known as the Persian silk tree silk, Pink silk tree, and sometimes as the Mimosa tree. It is a deciduous tree native to Asia.
This tree is noted for its green feathery foliage and produces a burst of pink flowers.
Persian Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin) photograph by Jim, the Photographer.
Silk trees range from small to medium in height. Although they can grow to just 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 m) tall, their arching tendencies do require a little bit of space to accommodate their umbrella-like width.
Garden enthusiasts love silk trees for their ornamental qualities, fragrant flowers, and ability to offer a shady patch during hot summer months.
Albizia julibrissin tree photograph by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
It is best to use silk trees as lawn accents and to plant them away from gathering spots, because shedding leaves, flowers, and pods can require significant clean-up.
Additionally, planting this tree away from cement patios or sidewalks is often advised to prevent spreading roots from causing disruption or damage.
Attractive Albizia julibrissin Persian Silk tree in bloom, image by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
Persian silk trees are fast-growing plants easily grown in medium moisture, well-drained soils.
Persian silk trees are very resilient and can tolerate a wide range of soils, including ones that are acidic and slightly alkaline.
While flowers tend to bloom in full sunlight, these trees can also grow in light shade.
Albizia julibrissin grows best in moist conditions, but they also have the ability to tolerate short drought periods.
The best time to fertilize the tree is in the spring, applying compost or organic fertilizer before the leaves appear.
As far as maintenance goes, pruning dead branches is advised to help keep the tree healthy. Also be on the look out for any webworms that might appear.
Leaf feature of the Persian Silk Tree, photograph by Blondinrikard Fröberg; CC.
Close up photograph of Persian Silk Tree flowers by Andreas Rockstein; CC.
I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Albizia julibrissin. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Mimosa pudica and Cercis siliquastrum.