The Mimosa Tree is a stunning show of flower bursts, which are often compared to starbursts or fireworks. This small to medium-sized fast growing Mimosa Tree displays the most beautiful pink flowers in the depths of summer. Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds will flock to these flowers, which show off bright, tight clusters of pink to yellow-tipped stamens. Frequently known as the “silk tree”, the stamens of the flower are reminiscent of silk threads. The Mimosa Tree has unique palmate leaves, which appear as tiny fronds similar to the leaves of palm trees or fern plants. Texture is a large aspect of why the Mimosa Tree has gained popularity throughout the United States. The 20 to 30 small leaflets provide a detailed background on which the bursting colors of the Mimosa flower blossom.
The Mimosa Tree is known by many other names throughout the world. Its Italian namesake, Filippo degli Albizzi, provides it a portion of its scientific name, Albizia julibrissin. The other part of the name is derived from a Persian word meaning “silk flower”. Commonly found throughout the world’s warmer climates, the Mimosa Tree is a popular ornamental flowering tree. It is also fast-growing, making it an irresistible choice for many homeowners. For gardeners hoping to provide dappled shade for smaller plants, the 20 to 25 foot tall Mimosa Tree provide the necessary height, shape, and leave density. It is always a beautiful addition to the garden.
These drought-resistant and fast-growing trees do produce beautiful flowers, which when coupled with its small fruit and leaves, can create the need for a clean-up routine. Well worth the clean-up and pruning, Mimosa Trees are positively beautiful when planted as either a central focal point in the yard or in a row as a border along entryways or fences. Enjoy the luscious pink blossoms in summer and the gentle shape throughout the year.
Enjoy some quick tips here. For more complete information, read about these hints in more detail below.
Sunlight – Mimosa Trees prefer full sun; in drier regions, some partial afternoon shade for the tree may prove beneficial.
Soil – The adaptable Mimosa Tree prefers moist, well-drained acidic soil; however, the tree is often successful in a variety of other soil conditions.
Water – The drought-tolerant Mimosa Tree prefers at least an inch of water a week; however, it is able to withstand mild to moderate droughts with relative ease.
Pruning – Pruning should occur in winter, while the tree is dormant only after it is established (3 years). Remove dead or diseased wood.
When Does a Mimosa Tree Get Leaves?
The mimosa tree (Albizia julibrissin) is loved for its fluffy pink flowers that resemble starbursts. But when do these fast-growing ornamental trees produce their delicate foliage? This article will explore the leafing habits of mimosa trees so you know when to expect those lovely bipinnate leaves.
Mimosa trees are deciduous meaning they drop their leaves in autumn before going dormant for winter. When spring arrives, new leaf growth emerges. Mimosa trees are considered late-breaking dormancy leafing out later in spring compared to other deciduous trees.
Here’s an overview of the mimosa tree’s leaf cycle:
Winter DormancyDuring winter mimosa trees are leafless as they go dormant. Flowering ceases and trees conserve energy.
Swollen Leaf Buds
As temperatures warm in early spring, leaf buds on bare branches begin to swell. This signals the tree is preparing to break dormancy.
Emerging LeavesBy mid to late spring, small light green new leaves start unfurling from the buds. In cooler climates this occurs in late May/early June. Further south it’s April/May.
Full Foliage
Within a few weeks of initial growth, mimosa trees reach their full canopy of lush, fern-like leaves. Just in time for summer blooms!
To know if your mimosa tree is leafing out properly, watch for:
- Plump buds along the branches
- Tiny green leaf tips poking out from buds
- Rapid expansion of small leaves
- Formation of bipinnate compound leaves
- Thickening foliage filling out the canopy
If your mimosa shows no signs of leaf growth by early summer, it could indicate a problem. Causes include winter damage, pests, transplant stress, or improper care. Have an arborist inspect it.
Once leafing begins, water and fertilize lightly to nurture the emerging foliage. Monitor for pests like spider mites that can attack young leaves. Prune only when necessary during leaf development.
With proper care, your mimosa will produce an abundant canopy of soft, ferny green leaves each spring. The burst of foliage signals the start of the spectacular flowering show to come! Mimosa trees may be short-lived but their striking leaves and flowers make them a stunning addition to any landscape.
Growth Rate and Mature Height
The Mimosa Tree is a small to medium sized ornamental tree. It is also exceptionally fast-growing. Expect the tree to quickly reach between 20 and 25 feet in height and 10 to 20 feet in width. The growth rate of the tree is fast, frequently earning the Mimosa Tree as much as 5 feet in a growing season!
The Best Places to Plant the Mimosa Tree
The Mimosa Tree, which originated in southwestern and eastern Asia, prefers the warmer climates. The tree is now commonly found throughout many regions of the world, and it can withstand brief cold spells.
In the United States, the Mimosa Tree prefers USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 10, preferring the subtropical to tropical climates of much of the lower latitudes. Plant the Mimosa Tree in an area that receive full sun, though some partial shade, especially in the driest regions of the southwest, can be helpful to the water retention of the tree. The Mimosa Tree is best suited as an accent plant, where its ornamental beauty will not be lost. For many gardeners, this may mean a center-garden or center-yard spot. The Mimosa Tree can also be used to line entryways or driveways, and its uniform shape allows it to pair nicely with others in its species.
Mimosa Trees prefer the moist, well-drained soil typical of loam. With regard to pH, the tree enjoys slightly acidic soil. Despite these preferences, the Mimosa Tree readily adapts to various soil conditions. Water is not as much of a concern for the Mimosa Tree. In fact, short dry spells will not harm this tree since it is drought-resistant. Like most flowering trees, the Mimosa prefers at least an inch of water a week in the form of rainfall or irrigative services. If the region in which the tree is planted is prone to severe droughts, consider investing in an irrigation system that will not only help control the flow of water, but disperse it to the Mimosa during those truly hot, long-lasting droughts.
The Mimosa Tree is a beautiful ornamental plant. When considering planting locations, look for one where its beauty will shimmer!
The Unexpected Result of Using Mimosa Leaves as Fertilizer
FAQ
Why is my Mimosa Tree not budding?
When buds form and then fail to bloom, there can be several different reasons, one possibility is there is not enough sun when the buds are ready to bloom. For instance, if the tree is planted near larger trees that leaf out, then there may be too much shade for the plant to receive the sunlight it needs to bloom.
How to bring a Mimosa Tree back to life?
Near-continuous moist soil is mandatory for Mimosa situated in bright locations. Once the top quarter dries out, give the plant a good dose of lukewarm water, avoiding a pool of water to accumulate underneath.
Do mimosa trees go dormant?
Water – The drought-tolerant Mimosa Tree prefers at least an inch of water a week; however, it is able to withstand mild to moderate droughts with relative ease. Pruning – Pruning should occur in winter, while the tree is dormant only after it is established (3 years).
What month do mimosa trees bloom?
Mimosa trees are fast growing (up to 2 feet per year), can get 30 to 40 feet tall and 20 to 50 feet wide. Only mature Momosa trees blossom, which occurs from May to June. The 2-inch flwers are pink, very fragrant, and form in fluf clusters that look like fine silk theads.