Growing a Mimosa Tree

Is a mimosa tree a beautiful addition to the backyard or is it an invasive weed? Ask a group of gardeners this question and you’ll quickly see that there are two very different trains of thought on the subject.

If you want mimosa tree, plant one. Just be aware of the fact that the trees produce a lot of seeds that can grow into unwanted trees that crowd out other plants, putting it on the list of invasive species in some areas. According to the Plant Conservation Alliance, 90 percent of the seeds are capable of producing a seedling after five years of lying dormant.

Mimosa trees, which are also known as silk trees, were introduced into the United States from Asia in 1745. The popularity of the mimosa trees is due to the high number of pink blooms that they produce and the fact that bees, butterflies and humming birds like them.

Also known as albizia julibrissin, mimosa trees grow 20 to 40 feet in height. The flowers, which resemble pink pom-poms in mid-summer, are a little more than an inch in length before developing into seed pods that can hold up to 10 seeds. The bark is smooth and light brown in color. The leaves, which grow five to eight inches in length and three to four inches in diameter, resemble a fern. They have a feathery appearance, making the tree popular as an ornamental.

Mimosa Tree Planting Tips

Mimosa trees require a good bit of sun. They will not grow in a wooded situation.

Sensitive to extremely cold temperatures, the trees are usually grown in United States Department of Agriculture hardiness zones six through ten. The far northern states and high elevations do not make good planting choices.

Mimosa trees tend to thrive in vacant lots, and along roadsides, rivers or streams because the flowing water easily transports their seeds.

When planting a mimosa tree, keep it at least 10 to 20 feet away from a house or structure.

Mimosa trees will grow in conditions from full sun to partial shade. The soil should be high in acidity. A pH level of 4.6 to 5 is ideal. Water the trees on a regular basis, but do not over water.

If your plot becomes over populated with mimosa trees, you may have to take control and rid the area of some. If so, be sure to remove all roots and surrounding seeds or the over population problem will soon reoccur.

Mimosa Tree Pests and Diseases

Mimosa trees are hardy enough to stave off most diseases. Mimosa wilt, also known as fusarium wilt, is the biggest problem. The wilt, which will fast kill a mimosa tree, is caused by a soil-borne fungus and infiltrates water-conducting tissues, blocking the flow of water and nutrients. There is no cure for fusarium wilt that attacks mimosa trees.

Mimosa trees are not affected by a lot of pest. However, they do harbor webworms, which are not usually a serious threat to mature trees. The webworms can quickly strip a young tree of its foliage.

Before you set out to plant a mimosa tree, take a good look at the available growing space and surrounding areas. It is easier to resist planting the tree than it is trying to rid your yard of invasive plants.

Want to learn more about growing mimosa trees?

Check out this site to learn more about USDA hardiness zones.

Visit this site to learn more about the role of mimosa trees in relation to landscaping and gardening for birds.

Click this link to learn about mimosa trees as an invasive species.