SafePlants

Albizia julibrissin: The Persian Silk Tree

The Albizia julibrissin, commonly known as the Persian silk tree or pink silk tree, is a captivating deciduous tree celebrated for its feathery foliage and showy, fluffy pink flowers.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions "mimosa-like bipinnate leaves," which could be of interest to pets.

Considerations for Children

• The tree produces "fluffy rose-pink flower-heads, with prominent stamens," which might attract children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Albizia julibrissin
• Common Names: Persian silk tree, pink silk tree, silky acacia, mimosa tree, pink acacia, nemu tree, pink siris, bastard tamarind, Lenkoran acacia, Mimosa
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family) or Leguminosae
• Synonyms: Acacia mollis, Acacia julibrissin
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Subspecies: A. julibrissin var. rosea is mentioned as a winter-hardy variety.
• A. julibrissin f. rosea is mentioned as a broad-crowned, medium-sized deciduous tree.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to southwestern and eastern Asia, ranging from Iran to Japan.
• Naturalized, especially in the southeastern United States.
• Grows in sub-tropical and tropical climates.

Ecological Role

• It is a fast-growing plant whose seedlings can become invasive.
• Considered an ideal Permaculture tree to reclaim damaged soils and help establish a quality Forest Garden.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• A broad-crowned, medium-sized deciduous tree.
• Features large, mimosa-like bipinnate leaves.
• Produces fluffy rose-pink flower-heads with prominent stamens that open in summer (August to September).
• Young trees can have an upright or moderately vase form.
• The trunk is unusually thick and remains green even on older trees.
• Can be a large shrub or small tree.
• Can reach 50 feet in height (Floss silk tree).

Quirky Facts

• The Persian Silk Tree ('Summer Chocolate') was declared the most promising newcomer to the market in 2006.

Potential Uses

• Persian Silk Tree extract has shown anti-inflammatory, anti-ageing, and astringent properties.
• The Mimosa (Silk Tree) also has numerous herbal and medical applications.
• Gardeners plant the Silk Tree (also known as Mimosa) for its crisp, clean compound frond-like leaflets and pink, pin-cushion fragrant flowers.