Persian silk tree - Albizia julibrissin (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Persian silk tree

Also known as: Silk Tree, Pink siris, Bastard tamarind, Nemu Tree

Albizia julibrissin, colloquially known as persian silk tree, is a deciduous plant with characteristic pink, fuzzy inflorescences. Persian silk tree is mainly cultivated for decorative purposes. Its flowers have a mild, sweet smell and are often visited by butterflies, bees and hummingbirds.

Scientific classification

Species

Persian silk tree (Albizia julibrissin)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

3 m to 16 m

Plant Height

6 m to 15 m

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Pink, White

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Persian silk tree

Distribution of Persian silk tree

Distribution Map

Persian silk tree is native to southwestern and eastern Asia, where it grows in semi-arid climates where soil may be sandy or disturbed. It has spread into parts of Europe, and has been introduced into the United States and parts of South America as an ornamental tree. It is deemed invasive in the United States.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Open sunny ravines, forests, rivers

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value

It can purify air and has strong resistance to sulfur dioxide.

Garden Use

Persian silk tree is good for planting on the roadside and in courtyards. This is a relatively common choice in gardens and landscapes because of its fast growth rate and visual appeal. Prized for its vase shape and spreading crown, it offers shade and beauty. It does well in ornamental parks and gardens and its companion plants include similarly blooming trees, like the Muskogee crape myrtle and the corkscrew hazel.

Symbolism

Harmony, family, joy, feminine strength

Interesting Facts

Legend goes that an ancient Chinese emperor died on a southern tour. His queen did not find him even after searching for a long time, and so she cried all day, shed tears and blood, and after she died she became a god. Later, people found that the emperor and his queen merged into one and became the persian silk tree.persian silk tree leaves are open during the day and closed at night. Since then, persian silk trees represent loyalty to love.

Name Story

Persian silk tree: Albizia's flowers look like thousands of strands of silk threads growing from the calyx. Since the specific epithet, julibrissin means silk flower in Persian, this genus is called a silk tree. As this plant is originated from Persia, it is called the Persian silk tree.

Mimosa tree: The leaves look similar to mimosa but it does not close up like mimosa when touched. Its leaves only close slowly at night and bow downward which looks similar to the closed-up mimosa. Hence, it is called the mimosa tree.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Persian silk tree, including the following common varieties :

Persian silk tree 'Boubri'Persian silk tree 'Ncaj1'Persian silk tree 'Summer Chocolate'

Toxicity

Persian silk tree seeds pose a moderate toxicity risk to dogs and cats. Ingesting the seeds can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more severe symptoms. Immediate veterinary care is essential to prevent complications. Pet owners should ensure pets do not access these seeds to avoid poisoning incidents.

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Quickly Identify Persian silk tree

Umbrella-shaped canopy spanning 20-25 feet (6-7.6 meters)

Fluffy, vibrant pink and white pom-pom flowers, 5-8 inches (13-20 cm) in diameter

Brown, flattened pods, 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) long, containing 5-10 seeds

Fern-like leaves with 4-30 pairs of opposite pinnae, each 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long

Smooth, delicate trunk transitioning from light brown to gray, featuring lenticels

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Care Guide for Persian silk tree

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Persian silk tree, originating from temperate regions, demonstrates moderate drought tolerance and a preference for drier conditions. Water every 1-2 weeks, allowing soil to partially dry. Thriving in full sun, persian silk tree benefits from deep watering during its active growth season to mimic natural rainfall.

Fertilize: Persian silk tree thrives with balanced fertilizers (N-P-K) applied twice yearly: once in spring and mid-summer. Limit to 1 pound per inch of trunk diameter, watering thoroughly. Adjust for young trees to avoid root damage. Lighter feeding is recommended in fall, with micronutrients for early growth.

Pruning: Persian silk tree features vibrant flowers and delicate foliage. Prune in early spring to enhance airflow and maintain shape. Avoid over-pruning as persian silk tree is sensitive; regular pruning fosters stronger growth and a visually appealing plant, perfect as a garden centerpiece.

Propagation: Persian silk tree can be propagated via hardwood cuttings, layering (air), or sowing seeds, ideally in autumn and winter. Successful methods exhibit new growth, with key tips including clean tools, rooting hormone, and sufficient moisture and nutrients.

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Images of Persian silk tree

Distribution of Persian silk tree

Culture

Cultivars

Toxicity

Quickly Identify Persian silk tree

Care Guide for Persian silk tree

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