Fabaceae
How to Grow and Care for Silk Tree (Albizia)
Albizia
Full sun, drought-tolerant, fast-growing tree. Water every 10 days, letting soil dry between waterings. Hardy in zones 6-10.
Every 10 days
Direct sun
-15° - 38°C
30% - 60%
Categories
What is Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus)?
Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) (Albizia) is a easy-care plant from the Fabaceae family. Albizia is a genus of tropical and subtropical ornamental trees in the Fabaceae family, known for their delicate pink powder-puff flowers and feathery bipinnate foliage. The most widely grown species is Albizia julibrissin.
Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) grows up to 12.0m, with spread of 900cm, watering every 10 days, -15°C – 38°C, 30–60% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus)?
TLDR: Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) needs Direct sun, watering every 10 days, and temperatures between -15-38°C with 30-60% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus)?
Water every 10 days. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established.
How Much Light Does Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) Need?
Requires full sun (minimum 6h/day). Does not tolerate shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus)?
Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6-7.5). Avoid waterlogged soils.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 90 days
What Is Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) and Where Does It Come From?
Albizia is a genus of tropical and subtropical ornamental trees in the Fabaceae family, known for their delicate pink powder-puff flowers and feathery bipinnate foliage. The most widely grown species is Albizia julibrissin.
How Big Does Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) Grow?
TLDR: Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) can reach up to 12.0m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
12.0m
Spread
9.0m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus)?
TLDR: Silk Tree / Mimosa (genus) is susceptible to 3 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Fusarium Wilt
Fusarium wilt is a serious fungal disease caused by the soil-borne fungus Fusarium oxysporum. The fungus invades roots and blocks the water-conducting vessels (xylem) of the plant, causing progressive wilting and eventual death. Host-specific forms of the pathogen exist that attack different plant species.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects (1/16 to 1/8 inch long) that feed by sucking nutrient-rich sap from plants. They reproduce rapidly and can quickly weaken plants, causing distorted growth and transmitting plant viruses. Aphids come in various colors including green, black, red, yellow, brown, and gray. They secrete honeydew, a sticky substance that attracts ants and encourages sooty mold growth.
Fun Facts
Seeds are toxic to livestock.
Flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
The wood has medicinal properties in Asian cultures.
Frequently asked questions
Is Albizia toxic?
How tall does it grow?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Lily | Easy | Low light | 4d | ⚠️ |
| Swiss Cheese Plant | Easy | Partial shade | 10d | ⚠️ |
| Golden Pothos | Easy | Low light | 8d | ⚠️ |
| ZZ Plant | Easy | Low light | 18d | ⚠️ |