How to Grow Mimosa Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Mimosa tree is an ornamental plant that is also known as the false acacia, silktree, and albizzia. It is a member of the legume family and is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. The tree grows to a height of 20-30 m and has a rapid growth rate. The leaves are bipinnate and the flowers are white and fragrant. The tree is drought-tolerant and is used for shade, soil stabilization, and as an ornamental plant.

How to Grow Mimosa Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Silver wattle
  • Acacia pycnantha
  • Belibasis
  • Silk wattle
  • Yellow wattle

Common Knowledge

  • The scientific name for the mimosa tree is Albizia julibrissin.
  • The mimosa tree is native to Asia, specifically China and Korea.
  • The tree is also known as the "silk tree" or "silk plant" due to the soft, silky feel of its leaves.
  • The mimosa tree can grow to be up to 40 feet tall.
  • The tree's beautiful flowers bloom in a variety of colors, including pink, white, and purple.
  • The flowers of the mimosa tree are often used in floral arrangements.
  • The wood of the mimosa tree is very light and soft, making it ideal for carving and other woodworking projects.
  • The tree is considered to be an invasive species in some parts of the world, such as the southeastern United States.
  • The mimosa tree is sometimes used as an emergency food source, as the tree's leaves and flowers are edible.
  • The tree is also known to have medicinal properties, and the bark and leaves have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

How to Grow

  1. For mimosa tree, first step is to find appropriate location. It should be in full sun and has well-drained soil.
  2. Then, prepare the planting hole. It should be twice as wide and as deep as the tree’s root ball.
  3. After that, place the tree in the planting hole and backfill it with soil.
  4. Next, water the tree deeply and regularly for several weeks.
  5. In order to encourage growth, mulch around the tree.
  6. Once the tree is established, prune it to shape as desired.
  7. Finally, enjoy the beautiful mimosa tree in your garden!

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, a mimosa tree needs well-drained, sandy soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH to thrive. The tree is not tolerant of wet or boggy conditions and will not survive in standing water. It also does not do well in very dry conditions or in heavy clay soils. If the soil is too rich, the tree will produce too much foliage and not enough flowers.

Light requirement

Just like other trees, the mimosa tree needs sunlight to grow. Without sunlight, the tree will not be able to produce the food it needs to survive. The amount of sunlight a mimosa tree needs depends on the type of tree. Some mimosa trees need full sun, while others can tolerate partial shade.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for the mimosa tree is one that is warm. This tree grows best in climates that do not experience any frost. They can tolerant light frosts, but it will damage the leaves. The ideal temperature for this tree is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 40% - 50%. However, the plant can survive in lower humidity conditions as long as the air is not too dry. The leaves of the plant will start to droop and the plant will become stressed if the humidity drops below 30%.

Fertilizing

Mentioning fertilizer, this plant doesn't need a lot. In fact, too much fertilizer will result in fewer flowers. The best way to fertilize a mimosa tree is to add a small amount of compost or manure to the soil around the tree each spring. As for the roots, they are relatively shallow and need to be kept moist. If the roots dry out, the tree will become stressed and may not flower as well.

About light

Pruning a mimosa tree is a simple process that can be done with a few tools. First, find a branch that is about 1/2 inch in diameter and cut it off at a 45-degree angle. Next, use a pair of pruning shears to cut off any leaves or stems that are in the way of the cut. Finally, use a saw to remove any remaining branches that are in the way.

The Propagation

Propagation is typically done by seed, divisions, or cuttings. Mimosa tree seed germination is slow, taking anywhere from one to three months. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots. Division can be done in early spring or fall. Each division should have two to three well-established roots. For cuttings, take semi-ripe cuttings from new growth in late summer or early fall.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 10 inches per year. However, some species of mimosa can grow up to 20 feet in a single year. The Mimosa tree is a fast-growing tree that can reach a height of 30 to 40 feet in just a few years.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are caterpillars, scale insects, and root-knot nematodes. The caterpillars can strip the tree of its leaves, while the scale insects can infest the bark and leaves. Root-knot nematodes can damage the roots, causing the tree to become stressed and more susceptible to disease.

Growing Tips

  • Remember to water your mimosa tree regularly, as it will not tolerate drought conditions.
  • Fertilize your mimosa tree every few months to ensure optimal growth.
  • Prune your mimosa tree regularly to shape it and encourage new growth.
  • Place your mimosa tree in an area that receives full sun for best results.
  • Be sure to mulch around your mimosa tree to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, as mimosa trees are susceptible to both.
  • Harvest the fluffy flowers of your mimosa tree regularly to enjoy their delicate fragrance.
  • Use caution when handling the sharp thorns on your mimosa tree.
  • Protect your mimosa tree from strong winds, as it can be susceptible to damage.
  • Enjoy the beautiful, fast-growing nature of your mimosa tree!

Related Plants

  • Smilax medica, native to Sri Lanka and southern India, is an evergreen climber with prickly stems. Flowers borne in umbels and fruits are red, shiny berries.
  • Broussonetia papyrifera, native to eastern Asia, is a deciduous tree with papery bark. Flowers borne in clusters, fruits are small, brown capsules.
  • Albizia julibrissin, native to eastern and southern Asia, is a deciduous tree with pink flowers. Fruits are long, green pods containing seeds.
  • Acacia farnesiana, native to the Americas, is a small tree with yellow flowers. Fruits are small, black seeds.
  • Prosopis juliflora, native to the Americas, is a small tree with yellow flowers. Fruits are small, black seeds.
  • Leucaena leucocephala, native

Source:
Albizia julibrissin (Mimosa, Persian Silk Tree, Pink Silk Tree, Silk ...
ENH227/ST068: Albizia julibrissin: Mimosa - University of Florida
Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin - University of Tennessee

Richelle Author Photo
Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Climbers Category