Silk Tree (Albizia julibrissin)

Silk Tree
Scientific Name: Albizia julibrissin Durazz.
Synonym: Albizzia julibrissin
Family: Fabaceae

Silk tree blossom in the spring. Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 2-23
USDA: 8-10

Heat Tolerance: Does actually better with high summer heat
Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
Origin: Asia (from Iran to Japan)
Growth Habits: Deciduous tree, fast growing, 20 to 40 feet tall (6 to 12 m), 40 feet spread, with arching shape; fern-like foliage
Watering Needs: Prefers regular water (deep watering every week or two)
Propagation: Seeds, cuttings, suckers

The Silk Tree's flat topped structure makes it a good shade tree, or patio shade. It provides a light shade that allows many plant to grow below its foliage. The species name 'julibrissin' is the Latinized form of an old Persian name.

Cultural Practices:
Careful pruning will allow the Silk Tree to develop the flat topped shape. If it is not pruned it will become more shrubby looking. The silk tree drops a lot of litter as leaves, flowers, and seed pods. Keep it away from swimming pools. Its wood is light and brittle, and subject to breakage during violent storms.

Blooming Habits:
The large globular pink colored flower clusters of the silk tree open in late spring and summer. They are followed by fairly large seed pods measuring 4 to 6 inches long (10-15 cm) and 0.5 inches wide (1.2 cm)

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