Silk Tree, Mimosa Tree, Pink Siris, Persian Silk Tree

On May 26, 2017, Rests from Bryan, TX wrote:

Had a mimosa tree in the backyard for 37 years. Was told that mimosas usually don't live that long. This tree survived 2 tornados and being hit by lightning. The lightning split the tree down the middle. I wrapped it with anything and everything to put it back together thinking it would soon die. It grew back together and lived and thrived another 15 years or more. I know in Tenn. they are considered a nuisance tree, but here in Texas they are loved. They are just hard to find at nurseries here. Mimosas are tough and easy to grow.

On Jul 4, 2015, bobbieberecz from Concrete, WA wrote:

This is Mimosa #2 . Mimosa #1 would have been rated a solid negative. #1 was planted in a rather heavy, tight soil and just wouldn't take off the first year. Though it's rated to -10 degrees, our one week of 5 - 10 degrees would kill it to the ground each year. The roots would send up new shoots but I wanted a tree not a scrawny shrub so I pulled it out and checked it off the must-have list. After several years of temptation to try this tree again I broke down and got another one last year, planting it in a much lighter soil of silt, loam and fine sand and held my breath through the winter. It survived and is the most beautiful tree in my garden, with or without flowers. It didn't reseed last year. We have very long days of sunlight in the NW corner of Washington state and long, da... read morerk, wet winters. Even IF the sun comes out in winter, it's path is so low that the rays are long and indirect. I don't know if this makes a difference. My daughter who lives near the Straits (a large salt water arm off the ocean), got a Mimosa at the same time (I live near the mountains so my winters are colder and summers much hotter). She has heavy tight soil and, like Mimosa #1, her tree died to the roots, though her winter was milder. She got impatient with the "ugliness of the one branch that survived and pulled it out. Now it's sending up growth and new stems just sitting there with roots exposed in the hot sun. Me thinks the tree doesn't like heavy soil, at least not in Washington state.

On Jun 19, 2014, Justjordn from Girard, OH wrote:

We have had our tree for over 30 yrs surprisingly here in Ohio. Although we no longer find any starts from the seeds and the seeds are VERY tiny in the pods now. I absolutely LOVE this tree and has made
It thru many harsh Ohio winters. I do believe it is now nearing the end, most of the limbs have no sign of life BUT thankfully we do have some ferns starting on about 10 of our branches. Such a great tree it has been and it is the only one in our neighborhood since we got it so many years ago, although we have numerous people stopping every year taking seeds trying to start these beautiful trees themselves.

On Jan 18, 2014, lalea878 from Mobile, AL wrote:

I live in Mobile, AL and yes, this tree goes crazy in my yard, as do Camelias, Magnolias and Azaleas. I dont hear folks complaining about any of those too much as being invasive though. I love mimosas, as I do the other varieties I mentioned, except azaleas arent my fave (they bloom a total of a month or so and try to shut out everything else in my yard, and get way too large). I had a mimosa growing through my privacy fence slats and had to use a saw on it as the board was bending due to the tree branch breaking through.

On May 5, 2013, Dean48089 from Warren, MI (Zone 6b) wrote:

I would never be without this tree. When I lived in an apartment I grew one as a bonsai. Now I have a huge one in my yard and it is a constant source of pleasure. It starts blooming in late June, just as the catalpa blooms end, and keeps on blooming into September. There are no other blooming trees that grow in this climate flowering at that time. During that time, from dawn to dusk the tree is full of buzzing hummingbirds and every sort of wasp and bee imaginable. The tree casts just enough shade to make the patio tolerable during the summer, yet not so much that it becomes a dark 'skeeter den. Seedlings, coming up from last year's seeds, seldom ever survive their first winter.

I can imagine that this tree might be a problem in places like Florida, but virtually ever... read moreything is a potential invasive in that climate so gardeners there must be constantly vigilant. Here in Michigan I have more problems with Hibiscus syriacus (Althea, Rose of Sharon) seedlings, as well as that most pernicious of weeds the 'Tree of Heaven' (Ailanthus).

I have only ever heard this tree called "Mimosa Tree" in my life, However apparently the correct common name is "Silk Tree." In Britain, "Mimosa Tree" refers to a species of Acacia.

On Aug 25, 2012, mcgerm from Galesburg, MI wrote:

I just reported this tree growning in Comstock MI. It is right along the Norfolk Southern tracks along M-96. I almost wrecked my car when I saw this tree. It was not a small specimen either so it has been growing there through quite a few Michigan winters.

On Jul 11, 2012, VineWorld from Syracuse, UT (Zone 7b) wrote:

I live in middle Alabama and I can attest to this plant's rampent spread (I have about 20 small ones in my yard I didn't even plant)! BUT that does not mean I don't love this absolutely gorgeous tree. It's flowers and bipinnate leaves are beautiful and the leaves close up at night for giggles. It also makes a wonderful addition to any landscape.

It is also a legume, so it's filling your soil with nitrogen it might not of had before!

Overall I would recommend this plant because of it beauty and the fact is it a legume, but just remember if you live somewhere hot and humid, you might very well have a few new seedlings you didn't plan on in your yard next year!

On May 29, 2012, DragonStone from Fairfield Harbour, NC wrote:

People aren't kidding about seedlings. It's easy to mow over them if all you have is a lawn but when it comes to beds, that's another issue. If you don't stay on top of the seedlings, it'll turn all garden beds into "carpets of green". I do what I can during spring to fight them back but once the heat of summer kicks in and I spend less time outside, the seedlings take over -everything-. I wish I could eradicate the source but alas, it's not mine or even on my property.

On Mar 28, 2012, Warmenuf from Gibsonville, NC wrote:

I have met a number of people who don't like the mimosa, but I continue to love it, to the extent that I got some seedlings a few years ago and planted several in my yard. What I like most about the mimosa is that it attracts hummingbirds.

On Aug 16, 2011, gunde from Westmoreland, TN wrote:

When I moved to my present home in Tennessee, I inherited a large mimosa. I thought it pretty and fragrant, yes, but.... seedlings, seedlings EVERYWHERE. Hundreds of them every year, to be pulled from my vegetable beds, my flower beds, my gravel walks and my gutters (yes, even there!!). I had overlooked some in my borders and since they are almost impossible to pull after only a year's growth or so, was forced to lop them off, which is pretty useless since they resprout ALWAYS. Impossible to eradicate! A true nuisance plant and yet my kids wanted one for their backyard. I warned them, but I guess they'll have to find out for themselves that this "beauty" comes at a big price to pay. Would not recommend except where climate might (by no means, necessarily will) keep this invasive pla... read morent in check.

On Jul 11, 2011, inezscion from Ocala, FL wrote:

I have NOT and Will Not grow this tree. In Florida the Mimosa is a very invasive tree. Yes, i think it's very pretty, but conserving our native eco system is much more important than having a 'pretty' tree. Please, Please do not tout this tree!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Inez, Florida Master Gardener

On Jun 3, 2011, herbella from Albuquerque, NM wrote:

This was the first time that I ever knew that it was called a "silk tree". In Oklahoma, I recall that we had a mature mimosa tree growing near the shed in the backyard of our house. The tree commanded attention so that few people noticed the shed underneath it. That was good because the house sat on a corner lot where the backyard was visible to everyone! However, I don't recall that the mimosa had a scent or that it attracted butterflies. I would have noticed butterflies because I love them. I also don't recall that the mimosa produced volunteers. I am certain that it helped cool things off during those summers when we tried to survive without air conditioning. Now that I live in New Mexico, I have pulled mimosa seedlings up from under our piñon pine and from under our fruitless mulberry.... read more I have to stay vigilant because I know that it forms deep roots quickly so as to make it impossible to pull up. The leaves are tiny so that they are difficult to sweep up or rake up. However, I think that the red bottle-brush tree is worse than mimosa, as far as being messy, because the red bristles of the bottle-brush are actually slippery and dangerous after they have fallen and gathered on a sidewalk.

On Jun 2, 2011, xerichick from Dripping Springs, TX wrote:

Yes, they are beautiful & fragrant, but... It really isn't of value as "food" as some comments suggest. I take it that most of the positive reviewers are not vegetable gardeners or farmers. Open ground with no mulch cover is where wind distributed seeds become a problem. The negative review from Crispycritter in GA points out the struggle that his farmer neighbor is having with the abundant seeds produced by this plant. The time & expense to farmers who must control the invasion of this plant into their fields translates into higher grocery prices. Incorporate albizia julibrissin flowers into your diet, & report back how much it lowers your food bill is. Try serving it to your children, too, & let us know how that goes.

On May 30, 2011, MusaRojo wrote:

I spent many hours up in the branches of a Mimosa tree in my front yard when I was a child. This is a beautiful and exotic tree and I find it difficult to understand why so many people hate this species. As for all the complaints about it producing seedlings; duh, this is the goal of every plant!

On May 30, 2011, Shellsfarm from Grass Valley, CA (Zone 8b) wrote:

This tree does grow in the Sierra foothills. Best to plant it so you can see the blooms from up above. Have not had a problem with suckers or sprouting seeds. We have three trees on our ten acres, two not irrigated, one that is. The irrigated tree has grown five times faster than the other two.

On May 30, 2011, Papiciri from Meco 28880,
Spain wrote:

Somewhere I have read that the epithet julibrissin is a corruption of the Persian Gul-i Abrisham, where Gul-i means flower and Abrisham, silk.

On May 28, 2011, paulette33 from Washington, DC wrote:

This tree was always a favorite when I was growing up in New Jersey and it was easily one of the most visible trees in our area and along the southern beach areas. I saw Cape May, NJ mentioned and it is easily found in the areas from Cape May north to Avalon and Long Beach Island. The scent is intoxicating at night and seems a perfect match for beach/coastal areas. When I lived in Hong Kong I discovered that they have a very similar silk tree but with red fuzzy flowers and it's smaller than the pink flowering variety I grew up with.

Now that I live in Washington, DC I never see them although someone who lives about one mile away from me in Maryland has a beautiful mimosa growing in their front yard with the canopy gracefully arching over the walkway to the front door. When i... read moret's in bloom it's a beautiful living umbrella of pink and green.

When I saw this tree in bloom I was simply filled with joy to find a childhood friend thriving in my neighborhood and made a wish to have one too.

Well unknown to me that was quite difficult. None of the garden centers in my area sell it because it's considered a "weed" here. I don't bother getting into discussions with people about "weed" and "non-weed" status. It's a matter of opinion. I find that people who accept nature and go with the flow love the mimosa but those who like to control and keep very precise yards and well planned gardens tend not to like the mimosa, or if they do like it want to appreciate it in someone else's yard.

People in the DC area don't seem to mind oaks, maples and gingkos - which in my experience make their own messes and create challenges to one's yard and garden too.

The scent of the mimosa is rivaled only by perhaps lilac (as far as flowering trees go) and the graceful structure of the tree is simply lovely to look at and take in (and yes you can eat the flowers and use in salads, punches and cocktails). The tree has a peaceful happy friendly vibe and is a welcomed addition to any yard, imho. People will repeatedly comment on its beauty and the flowers' scent.

Yes it can be messy but that's the price of beauty. After making my wish last summer, I suddenly discovered 5 growing in our flower beds and 1 (unfortunately) right next to the side of our house. I have potted and given away 3, replanted 1 and will tackle the one growing next to our house tomorrow. I truly hope that I can remove it without damaging its roots because I would love to transplant this one as well.

My husband and I have lived in this house for two years and never before found mimosas growing wild in our yard until this year. None of our neighbors within 1 to 3 blocks have this tree. And I can find none in the park near our home. As I mentioned earlier, someone in the nothern end of my neighborhood has one and that is the only one I have seen in my area until last week when I found our saplings.

Birds and animals can of course spread seeds from many miles away - which is fine with me. I wished for a mimosa and got one five fold. This tree grows along I95 wild from Baltimore north to just outside NYC. I don't recall ever seeing it once getting into NYC or Connecticut but was delighted to hear that someone on this forum grew up in the Bronx and a lovely mimosa brightened their view.

I would like it if everyone could and would love this magical tree but if some cannot that's okay. Perhaps over time it will win over new generations with its charm, grace and medicinal value.

On May 5, 2011, hnrsmith4 from Chicago, IL wrote:

Silk trees are the ultimate option to give beauty and charm to your office or home setting. The prime advantage of silk trees is they don't need any good care, watering, or trimming, and give a re-energizing green touch to your rooms without drawing insects and other pests. Silk trees are now available in a selection of colors and shapes.

On Nov 1, 2010, sleeknight from San Antonio, TX wrote:

I recently moved to San Antonio Texas and wanted one of these trees since I had several in Houston. I had a lot of trouble finding one but finally found one left in a nursery here. The poor thing was half out of its pot and very dry but the nursery assured me they would refund my money if it did not grow. I bought it in April of this year. Well its now November and it has done beautifully. Its kinda dry here and have to water a lot, but it is doing great. I am a little worried if it will make it through the winter. I plan to mulch it and cover it if it really freezes here. The leaves are now dropping, but according to comments, this is natural for this time of year. Hope it makes it through winter as I am looking forward to a bloom next summer.

On Aug 31, 2010, deadnateray from Seymour, IN (Zone 5b) wrote:

i grew up with a mimosa in my dads front yard in butlerville indiana and yes there were baby trees but as long as you mowed they werent a problem , i found a whole fence row of babies the other day and brought one home , right now doesnt look so good but hopefully it will comeback . i love the beautiful flowers and the way they smell mmmmmmm.......

On Aug 24, 2010, drdeadlift from Scotts Valley, CA wrote:

I love the flowers even though it is a messy tree. It does not spread much here in Scotts Valley Ca as it is too dry, but it is invasive in my nursery which stays moist, and also develops root suckers.

On Aug 23, 2010, sseiber6 from West End, NC (Zone 7b) wrote:

When I lived in Dunnellon, FL, I had this beautiful tree growing next to an out building in my back yard. It was georgeous, and I loved it. I had no problem with the reseeding, as my husband simply mowed under and around the tree. I never even had any volunteers either. It never broke off, and had a thick trunk. It also was very near a fig tree I had growing. It was a mature tree, when I moved there, and 12 yrs later when I moved, it was still beautiful. I since have moved to NC and miss this tree so much. I will plant another one in my back yard as soon as I can find one here. I am amazed that so many people hate this tree!

On Aug 5, 2010, QSally from Scranton, PA wrote:

These beautiful trees have been growing in my home town of Cape May N.J for as long as I can remember. There is one near my mother's house that is older than 36 years old and it is still tall and gorgeous. We have NEVER considered them a pest or weed.
I have been unsuccessful in growing them from a seed here in Scranton, P.A. as well as transferring them from my mothers yard. They can not be out of the ground for it appears to be more than 2 hours at the most. Seeing as I live 3 1/2 hours away it was pretty much gone before I even got home.
I love this tree so much I am going to end up ordering one to plant. My mother in law lives near by and her neighbor has one. Everyone thinks it is beautiful.

On Jun 18, 2010, EffieH from Amston, CT (Zone 6b) wrote:

I grew up in Oklahoma where my Dad grew mimosas down the side of our long driveway -- I don't recall them being invasive at all, they grew slowly and eventually died after about twenty years due to the dryness of the location, but they were beautiful and smelled wonderful in the spring. I miss them here in Connecticut where you rarely see them, they are definitely NOT invasive here but once in a while you see a huge one that has become a large tree. I ordered three small ones online two years ago (probably from someone down south profiting from the invasion in their yard -- if you're having a problem, try selling them on eBay to people in places where they are hard to come by) two lived and they are each about ten feet tall already.

On Jun 1, 2010, shn02al from Wetumpka, AL wrote:

Don't do it! I see these trees peeking out of old forest groves every time I drive on my way to town and every year there seems to be more and more of them. It's invasive in Alabama and taking over our trees. As if kudza wasn't enough...Do not plant!!!

On Mar 23, 2010, milletre from Sacramento, CA wrote:

Can occasionally be pruned and guided into a beautiful tree, but it's really messy and insanely invasive where I live (Sacramento). Do not want.

On Dec 31, 2009, DMgardener from (Daniel) Mount Orab, OH (Zone 6b) wrote:

Now, I have not grown this plant, but there are several large specimens around here, and every June, I am amazed by the puffy, yet spikey blooms. The form of the trees are a bit like gigantic bonsai, with that flat top, and bent over shape. This plant is a looker!!! A real conversation piece.

~Daniel

P.S. In the winters of '04 and '07 (two of the worst winters I have ever seen) the all Mimosas survived!

On Oct 4, 2009, chaselcrn from Peoria, IL wrote:

I live in an area of the Midwest where the mimosa does not usually thrive. We planted a seedling against a tall fence in our back yard 24 years ago. It hangs over a deck around our pool. We didn't get a bloom until 3 years ago and , and the the view was spectacular for the entire summer. Again last year it produced a full blooming tree. The flowers were messy on the deck, but didn't mind the cleanup, compared to the beauty of the tree. We have silver maples all around our neighborhood, and the flowers from the mimosa doesn't compare to the mess the pods from the silver maple do, growing everywhere, including gutters. We sit on the patio and watch the hummingbirds fly from our neighbor's feeder to our tree. Last year was a slow start for it to bring forth leaves; was very worried we ... read morehad lost it. This year by the end of May we had no growth on the tree. We prunned the tree hard and it had new life. Two weeks ago, we noticed 1 lone bloom on the tree. Three years ago it was 25ft, tall. We prunned it to about 15ft. this year and it was a full bush. Hopefully it will again come back. In the meantime, I have found 9 seedling trees growing in various spots and have potted them in containers and are growing them for friends who want the tree. I'm anxious for spring to see if the Mimosa will give us yet another year of its sprawling beauty.

On Aug 31, 2009, dbpbkc from pleasant Hill, MO wrote:

I have read the feedback on these trees and it seems that there is a love it or hate it opinon on them. I have always found them to be beautiful accents where planted but until now have never had the space to grow one. In my area these trees are found planted as a focal point in people's lawns. I believe the combination of cold winters and lawnmowers must keep them in check. I have recently moved to a rural area and started some seeds from a few pods I collected last year. The germination rate was pretty low but I did get two seeds to sprout. Keeping in mind the commentary on invasiveness, I will choose their site carefully when planting them in the ground next year. They do not get very tall here but seem to look more like large umbrella shaped shrubs so I believe this will make it... read more easier to manage.

This feedback forum is a very useful tool and I find it to be a great way to get information from someone other than the nursery (who wants to sell you a product). I have read the complaints from others on the invasive nature of these trees. However; after moving from an in town area full of mature trees, I can tell you that most seed producing trees are a mess and can become invasive pests because of whatever form of seed they drop. ( Black walnut and mullberry being suburban nightmares.) I make this statement because if a novice gardener is reading these comments, I want them to get an idea that any tree planted comes with some negative impact on the surrounding area. You will be pulling countless seedlings from your yard (or maybe the suckering roots) of any large tree that is growing in your area. This is just part of living with trees. The only way you can reduce this chore is to not have trees in your area. Trees can offer so many positive benefits but unfortunately they also come with some negative points. It is part of living with them and in my opinion the bonuses outweigh the negatives.

On Aug 11, 2009, GreenerBlues from Cary, NC wrote:

Every time I see one of these "trees" in my neighborhoods I cringe. My experience with the mimosa has been awful, and I could take any one of the other negative reviews and copy it word for word because these people know what they're talking about, and I have lived it. The sticky sappy flowers, the thousands of seed pods, the prolific and dormant seedlings, the weekends lost to yardwork, the mess - all true. I once trimmed a branch hanging over into my yard and was subdued by an allergic reaction for two days afterwards. That branch came back, growing eight(!) feet in a year. The pink flowers are staining my deck and the seed pods are littering my vegetables. I cannot stress the negative aspects of this plant enough, yet I believe the worst part about it is that people can't see it's reall... read morey a weed and let it grow anywhere. Please PLEASE do not purchase, sell or cultivate (actively or passively) and get rids of any small ones that you can. You may not even be able to chop it down, or spray Round-Up on it, or pull them up without them coming back they are that bad.

On Jun 30, 2009, plortho from Greensboro, NC wrote:

it all sounds like hyperbole 'til you've had to deal with mimosas:
"A POX, A SCOURGE..."

my neighbor's 35ft tree propogated evil seedlings everywhere...
hard to pull, hard to kill, choke out native species, a bloody nuisance.

planting and selling are IRRESPONSIBLE, INCONSIDERATE acts, point blank. why make things worse for others?
Please find a friendlier alternative. And, if you like the way they look:

read a Dr. SEUSS book instead! - i'm glad i did!

On Jun 28, 2009, HerringtonHills from Coden, AL (Zone 8b) wrote:

As a young child... I loved this tree. The "pink fuzz" was so pretty. I also loved touching the leaves and watching them "fold" away.
However as a adult with my own garden, fence-lines and yard to tend to... I HATE this tree. It grows everywhere! Under things, over things, around things. Seedlings... hundreds of them pop up around the bases of my sago palms and day lilies.
I was honestly shocked to see that people actually "wanted" these trees. If your ever in the Mobile, Alabama area... come over to my house... you can take as many as your truck can haul away!

On Feb 17, 2009, Angel_D from Quincy, IL (Zone 5b) wrote:

This plant grows in my area (Midwest) and I also remember it growing in Hawaii, where I lived for ten years. I was on the board of directors for my condominium association there, and we had to have a couple of mimosa trees in a parking area cut down because of the leaves. They are so tiny that they easily slip through the "grill" area on the top of the car's hood (just below the windshield). As noted by a previous reviewer, the flowers are sticky and difficult to clean up after if they get on a car. This is certainly a beautiful tree, but it needs to be kept away from cars, or any other artificial surface, really, because of the effort required in clean up.

I can't speak to how invasive they are here. I see several around town when they are blooming, but I haven't not... read moreiced them in rural areas (zone 5).

On Aug 17, 2008, max2penny3 from Mount Pleasant, PA wrote:

I planted seeds from my mimosa tree that I had collected from another tree prior to moving. It has been about 2 years & growing well, but no blooms. I love this tree & the blooms are so pretty.

On Aug 4, 2008, tesaje from Jefferson, MD (Zone 6b) wrote:

I hate this tree. It grows faster than anything, plants itself everywhere and it stinks when you break it. It is hard to pull even when young. This tree is an ecological disaster.

On Jul 5, 2008, catherindagr8 from Roanoke, VA wrote:

Invasive? I find the massive Oak trees in the yard of our rental home more invasive than the pretty Mimosas. The Mimosa is lovely and resembles a fern to me. I haven't noticed any unwanted seedlings coming up the way others are saying they will.... I can't get rid of all the darn acorns that are sprouting in my yard, flower beds, herb garden.

I also have sweet pea that just showed up after three years at this residence. talk about invasive and difficult to kill...it is all over the yard not to mention taking over one of my flower/ tree gardens...

On May 19, 2008, secretariat73 from Las Vegas, NV wrote:

The mimosa was one of the first plants placed in our southern exposure yard over 10 years ago, and it remains a solid favorite for both me and my husband. Over the years, it has gradually developed into a 15-20 foot tree with a beautiful canopy. It has flourished in alkaline clay soil with average water (by desert standards) and provides much desired filtered shade for neighboring plants. The mimosa responds well to fertilizer but does not seem to require it, so most years, it goes without. The branches have withstood 65mph wind gusts, and we've never had problems with fallen limbs. It handles temperatures that range from 5F to nearly 120F and takes full desert sun without any protest whatsoever. This plant has developed an incredible root system! Volunteer seedlings have never been... read more an issue because the garden is heavily mulched. So, seeds never have a chance to take hold. The tree does generate a good amount of litter, but it is a small price to pay for such a tough and beautiful specimen plant!

On Apr 19, 2008, babyqsmama from Hico, TX wrote:

I love my Mimosa tree! MY grandmother had 2 when I was little and I loved the smell and flowers. We played under it and climbed it all the time. Now I have my own home and have one growing. I am having trouble getting a true tree. Mine looks more like a bush. So many little spouts came up at the same time in the same area that there are many little trunks coming up.

On Apr 6, 2008, snorklehead from Nokomis, FL wrote:

The trees are beautiful, fast growing, and give a lot of shade. I grew up with one next to the driveway, here in Florida. The lawn mower takes care of seedlings with no problem. It's really cool how the leaves fold up at night and reopen in the morning. Sure, a few of the flowers will turn brown on your driveway, but you can always hose them off. I'm planning to plant a couple in the back yard. I won't live long enough to go the live oak route.

On Mar 8, 2008, crimsontsavo from Crossville, TN (Zone 7a) wrote:

Perhaps if a person wants this plant so badly, they can place it in a large pot and remove the seeds before they spread.
Would work great on an outdoor patio. ;-)

On Feb 25, 2008, sasha10 from Valsolda,
Italy (Zone 9b) wrote:

This is a beautiful tree. It is the most exotic plant here in zone7b. It is very popular. It spreads and has pink and white flowers all summer.

On Jan 31, 2008, jqpublic from Cary, NC (Zone 7b) wrote:

This plant has taken over our roadsides and the edges of natural areas. I hate this tree! It also sprouts all over my yard!

On Jan 7, 2008, Mudgunner from Victoria, BC (Zone 8a) wrote:

I brought home (to Canada) a seed pod of this tree which was growing like a weed in Salt Lake City. I started several plants from the seeds, and gave away all but one which I have in a large (5-gal.) pot. After about 10 years of protection from the winter, which may not have been necessary, it was accidentally subjected to a freeze while I was away from home. It survived, but bore no flowers this year. I'm crossing my fingers for next year.

Messy at times as I grow it on a balcony, but I seem to have the only survivor of my original batch of seeds.

On Sep 16, 2007, goldie50 from Augusta, GA wrote:

This plant is very invasive. I started a veggie garden and a wildflower garden this summer. I spent the last month pulling up baby mimosa coming up everywhere. It has taken over our backyard and my husband just mows over with the mower. I want to get rid of this nuisance.

On Aug 17, 2007, broncbuster from Waxahachie, TX (Zone 8a) wrote:

Wow! I never new this beautiful tree could spark such bitterness! I can't imagine how such a small thin-leaved tree could be so invasive! I've got a whole lot of hackberry trees on my place and I'd love to replace them with these. I had these in the yard as a kid and always loved the way that they sprawled out. I could climb up in them and sit on the branches and was able to jump to the ground. I remember a few saplings would come up each year but they were easily removed. We planted sunloving plants under them and they did great! And the blooms are gorgeous. To each his own, I guess.

On May 27, 2007, krdixon from Albuquerque, NM (Zone 7a) wrote:

FYI the very first Albizia julibrissin planted in the US is located at 1320 Weller Way (north of Land Park) in Sacramento, CA . It was brought into the States by a nurseryman and selections were made by him for distribution in the various areas of the US. We purchased the home in the very early 50 and had to sign a contract that we would maintain the tree in good health. I believe that this covenent is still part of the title deed.

On Apr 25, 2007, tropicsofohio from Hilliard, OH (Zone 6b) wrote:

I love the tropical look of it in the summer. Exotic flowers cover the tree; it grows fast but not too weedy here.

On Apr 10, 2007, pinkypetunia from Poplarville, MS (Zone 8b) wrote:

The mimosa grows wild here in south Mississippi and I truly believe we are blessed because of it. As a girl growing up here, I have so many wonderful memories of climbing a huge old mimosa in our back yard where I could sit undetected for hours and think, read or just watch the cars go by. Such a pleasant, shady place on a HOT summer day. Everyone had one or two in their yards and the absolute best thing to me about mimosas is the smell of the flowers,it is divine, like angels breath. My sons have grown up knowing how much mama loves mimosa and every year I can't wait till they bloom,when we first see a bloom, no matter where weare, my son will stop the car and go pick me mimosa blossoms,ah heavenly scent, I now have 5 yr. old tripplett grand daughters and they will know all about mimosas ... read morethis summer!

On Mar 16, 2007, cabrlamo from Alexandria, IN (Zone 5a) wrote:

I had never seen/heard of this plant until I lived overseas in Japan. While there I thought it was an interesting tree with unique blooms and a nice smell. I haven't seen anyone else comment on the smell of the blooms. Maybe I am silly, but I will always associate this tree with the smell of the flowers and dusky sunsets. After three years in Japan we moved back to Indiana. (Of course we forgot about this tree.) And then lo and behold we buy a house in a small town and down the street a neighbor has one in her front yard! It is a fairly large tree, so I assume it has been there for some time. And I have yet to see many limbs or branches down to indicate that it is weak wooded. I was surprised when I saw this was rated for zone 6a. We are in central Indiana and are zone 5. It is a gorgeous ... read moretree and very distinctive in our neigbor's yard. I love to walk the dog down the street and smell the blooms. It makes me think of my years overseas (sniff) and more tropical climates.

On Jan 21, 2007, stillwaterok from Stillwater, OK wrote:

Great site you have here! In regards to the Mimosa Tree, I am a Stillwater, Oklahoma native. And I grew up climbing and even building a tree house in the beautiful large Mimosa Tree (with pink flowers) that adorned our frontyard.

So, include Stillwater, OK in your list of locations. By the way, I give it a 90% Positive. And a 10% Negative, because it can be a nuisance when the seeds fall and one starts to grow next to the foundation of your home. Hacking it off doesn't kill it. It will still grow back. Very hardy! Thanks for Your time! ~Mike Duckwall~

On Dec 8, 2006, lobcard from Newport News, VA (Zone 7b) wrote:

I was shocked to see Mimosa on a top ten plant list when it should be on the THUG list! Yes, the flowers are interesting, but the seeds spread this plant like crazy and it displaces native species. I did research that involved plants and hummingbirds, and the birds do tend to ignore pollinating native species when the mimosa is in flower - and that makes it harder for our beautiful natives to reproduce. It is considered invasive in mountain, piedmont and coastal regions of Virginia according to our Division of Natural Heritage, yet nurseries are still allowed to sell it (I'll never get that!).

On Sep 30, 2006, jediabish from Blue Springs, MO wrote:

I grew up in NC where this tree is abundant! It has the most beautiful foliage and blossoms in the early summer. It tolerated some of our driest years and some of our harshest ice storms with no visible damage. They grow very fast and propogate very quickly. We have them here in MO but I've not seen them grow like they do further south. I plan to start mine from seeds. I do love them and think they are a great addition to any butterfly garden(as long as you keep them under control (ex. pull up the volunteers).

On Sep 1, 2006, AWildflowerMan from Calera, AL (Zone 7b) wrote:

This tree is listed on the USDA Invasive Plants list as an invasive and noxious weed. Here in Alabama it pushes out native trees and shrubs along highways, particularly interstate highways, to the point where along some stretches it is the dominant plant. The only true competitors to this plant are other invasive plants like Paulownia tomentosa (Princess Tree), kudzu, and, in some cases, Japanese honeysuckle. Yes, it is beautiful when in bloom; however, this becomes a curse because of the prolific seed production. There are too many native plant species that are just as beautiful; they are just not "exotic."

On Aug 14, 2006, Fireweed87 from Collingswood, NJ (Zone 6b) wrote:

Garish tree that looks out of place wherever it's planted, IMO. Invades our woodlands in New Jersey and is considered an invasive species.

On Jul 21, 2006, MrMac81 from Wellford, SC (Zone 8a) wrote:

In the Piedmont of South Carolina, the Mimosa tree is extremely Invasive! On the college campus where I teach
it is growing all along the wood lines.
All along I-85 it is growing into the barrier fences along the Greenville-Spartanburg area.

Great plant for Hummingbirds and buttleflies, but a problem.

On Jul 11, 2006, renatelynne from Boerne new zone 30, TX (Zone 8b) wrote:

This grows fast. BUT it is what I consider a trash tree, (it just about always has something falling from it). Little trees start just about everywhere a seed falls. The ONLY reason I would plant it is if you want something extremely fast growing that is showy and you don't mind cleaning up under it a lot.

On Jun 30, 2006, SherryLike from SE Arky,
United States (Zone 8a) wrote:

In my area southeast Arkansas and all the areas around my area, MS, LA, TN, TX, and others, the Mimosa Tree is considered a messy, invasive pest. They are 'drippy' and their flowers become sticky, stinky and unsightly. I had no idea there was any use for them until I read the plant file reviews, I'm amazed they are appreciated anyplace.

On Jun 21, 2006, johnjean from Hamilton, OH wrote:

June 21/2006,I have growed these beautiful Mimosa tree's for years. I live in Hamilton, Ohio. It will do what you make it do. Mine are over 20 years old, they have been cut to the ground at least three times, I even tryed twisting the new shoots that came up. They were very pretty!! but the bark did not like it, so I cut them back to the ground in about three years.They are now about 7 to 10 ft. The butterfly's and Hummingbird's love them,but if you do not like the flowers or seedlings,clip them off, it does not hurt them. (well it does not hurt mine). I keep mine like an umbrella, so soom times I clip the flower buds. mine have never been invasive.

On Jun 7, 2006, arroblake9212 from Jasper, AL wrote:

This tree here in Jasper Alabama is a very unwanted tree..BUT i don't have them in my yard..so on that note it does not bother me!..although i have one on the side of my driveway and yes it does have seedlings everywhere..this tree is 40-50 ft tall (yes!! it is the biggest i have ever seen!)

On Jun 3, 2006, casper1310 from Lula, GA (Zone 7a) wrote:

I love my Mimosa Tree!!! I live in ga. where they pop up everywhere,As a kid growing up there was one on an empty
lot beside our house and I always loved to play around and under it and the flowers oh how I loved the flowers.I called it my feather tree. It lived there for about 20 years until someone bought the land and cut it down and it never came back after that.I tried for years to pull one up and replant it but they didn't live.so about a year ago I was out back at work and found thousands on the bank and after a good rain
I managed to pull a small 1ft one up and took it home and planted it in my front yard and watered it every other day
and this year it is about 4ft tall. I don't care if they are messy,It'll just give me something to do when it flowers and they s... read moretart falling off. I recommand this for anyone....

On May 14, 2006, coldcountry from Redwater, AB (Zone 5a) wrote:

I am trying to grow my Mimosa indoors over the winter months but it doesn't seem to get any bigger. if it starts to grow, can it be kept indoors.

On Apr 26, 2006, zzazzq from Madison, MS wrote:

Beautiful tree, carefree, kind of has that "old southern" look to it. Has local reputation for its roots getting into pipes, and spreads very aggresively by seed.....have to pull up seedlings all the time, and I don't even have one of these trees in my yard.

On Feb 16, 2006, thestopnshop from Rockaway Beach, MO wrote:

I'm a native in southern Missouri and I feel very fortunate that Mimosa's grow wild here. We live in a wooded area and there is nothing more beautiful than a Mimosa amoungst the cedar tree's. Since they grow wild here, I found 3 young tree's, all around 3 feet each. I braided them and planted as 1 tree. Well it has been 4 years now and we are tickled pink when we witness people stopping in their cars to admire our natural 25 foot umbrella......especially when in bloom.

I recommend to anyone who wants to try this themselves to make sure that you have the room. This threesome will get wide as tall. But I guarantee that you will have something quite spectacular as it is beautiful :-)

Thank You,
Pamela Ehlers

On Dec 20, 2005, Louannie wrote:

Not worth the seedlings everywhere, which are impossible to pull up pretty soon after sprouting, and only grow back seventeen (well, slight exaggeration) more sprouts if you cut them.

Treating the stub with Roundup immediately after cutting seems to work.

Please be considerate of your neighbors if you plant one of these, as your seedlings could get into their flower and shrub borders if planted too close.

On Dec 11, 2005, CastIronPlant22 from Lompoc, CA (Zone 10a) wrote:

Although i do love this tree, i hate the mess, I had a large one at my other place and one of the windy days, it blew over and was a mess, it was also up -rooted from the wind. The roots seem to be too shallow. Its very pretty, but be careful when planting, stake it good and i mean good and deep. It was a shame to loose that big of tree. It was about 20 feet tall with a nice weeping canopy.

On Sep 7, 2005, mikekilhoffer from Chatham, IL (Zone 5b) wrote:

We have a 6 year old mimosa tree in my brother's yard, one street over from my own. He bought the property with the tree already established. When I was looking at his new property, being a gardener myself, I was curious as to his deceidedly oriental, or at least tropical looking tree. I looked it up on the web and found it to be a mimosa tree. As far as I know from looking it up it should not be able to survive in a Zone 5b area. Yet this tree is 30' tall and healthy as can be. I am starting some seedlings in 10" pots to transplant next spring. The peachy aroma is wonderful, and the hummingbirds are beautiful. His tree only throws out suckers in our cooler climate in late spring... hardly invasive in this zone. There are some seedlings that try to develop, but winter will kill th... read moreem with no abandon, as it does each winter. I believe my grow-light farm in the basement will keep them alive to propagate in the spring. I feel I must add that the property owners had a garden planted around the tree, including peppers and tomatos that grew like mad. I can only think that they fed off of the nitrogen from the tree, or else it was a miracle-grow fed proliferation. I have collected 200+ seeds from pods, and intend to infect my property with the sexiest of trees that can grow in Illinois next spring. His house looks very much like a Japanese garden setting with the 300 gallon guppy/koi pond overlooked by a big mature mimosa and some tropical annuals.

On Aug 20, 2005, SudieGoodman from Broaddus, TX (Zone 8b) wrote:

Thanks folks for good information. I live in Zone 8b near Lake Sam Rayburn in Southeast, Texas. In Spring I enjoy fragrance as I walk along country road. One has appeared in my front yard! I'm thrilled! It's about 2 feet tall, but in a bad location.

Hope to dig up and move to better place this Fall of 2005.

On Jun 23, 2005, cfer317 from Hazel Park, MI (Zone 6a) wrote:

I grew up in Alabama and my Aunt had 2 of these trees. I remember the humming birds that it attracted. I now live in the Metro Detroit area,(on the north side). We brought back a couple of small mimosa's from our last trip down to AL. I didn't think they could survive here, but since then I noticed that there is one growing in Ferndale, Michigan. It is a good size tree. I watched it during the winter and it is now blooming. I can't wait for mine to get bigger! This is going to be a real treat for me, and I know that it will attract a lot of attention from those who have never seen one!

On Jun 8, 2005, kelleyderr from Los Angeles, CA wrote:

We planted a baby Mimosa (24" box) last summer. It immediately dropped all of its leaves. We left it in the ground, watered it, and checked to make sure trunk was still green and it made it through the winter. We were excited this spring to see small buds, but those have browned and fallen off. Trunk (and most branches) are still green when scratched. It is a single-trunk with a high head, which I hear is unusual.

On May 19, 2005, JaxFlaGardener from Jacksonville, FL (Zone 8b) wrote:

I am creating a mimosa grove in my hummingbird garden with trees provided to me by friends. I got about 10 of the trees last year from a friend that raises cockatiel birds. The Albizia julibrissin had sprung up near her outdoor cockatiel cages and she wanted them removed because (she says) the seeds are poisonous to her birds.

I transplanted all these trees of various sizes from 2 ft to 6 ft bare-root with no problem. This year, as leaves began to emerge, I cut off the limbs about 1/3 from the tip to encourage more branching (the trees tend to grow only one or two long, pendulous branches otherwise and may be the cause of reports above of branches snapping from too much weight). I stuck the pruned branch tips into the ground around the trees and many of the b... read moreranches took root and are still growing. Our wet, humid conditions in northeastern Florida probably contributed to their survival.

I look forward to seeing an entire flowering canopy of the trees in some future year. Despite their problems with prolific spreading and flower and seed pod dropping, the wispy, tropical effect and exotic scent of the flowers seems worth the effort of controlling their bad habits.

On May 7, 2005, nick89 from Tallahassee, FL (Zone 8b) wrote:

Mimosas are very invasive and often overrun abandoned fields. However the flowers are attractive and the trees provide a tropical look. Their growth habit is nice with really old specimens vaguely reminiscent of live oaks with the wide spreading branches. Seems to reach its largest size on river bottomlands. Mimosa is a bad choice to plant because of its tendency to self sow prolifically and mimosa wilt which is incurable and eventually kills the tree.

On Oct 31, 2004, keithstewart from Dry Prong, LA wrote:

I have many, many of these planted along the highway and road to my house. They are beautiful!

Last year, me n the new wife threw a shovel in the truck and dug up several more from along the roadside near here. We planted them and they too are growing nicely. I have seeds soaking now to plant this week in places I want to fill in along the hwy in front of our house.

I also planted several next door at my moma's house when I built it...we have a beautiful mimosa tree-lined road now!

They form a shady canopy along the drives and all bloom a beautiful pink thru the summer. Each of them have bird feeders and humming bird feeders hanging from them.

I collect sacks of seed pods to give my friends who also want them.

Kids... read more love to climp mimosa trees and play with the seed pods.

On Sep 13, 2004, NativePlantFan9 from Boca Raton, FL (Zone 10a) wrote:

I wish this plant wasn't invasive in Florida and was native to the state because I really like the flowers of this tree. I think it looks really nice, even though it is on the EPPC Plant List One and is listed as invasive. *SIGH*

On Aug 29, 2004, bisty111 from Santa Rosa, CA wrote:

I love the beauty of the this tree. My 30'+ tree is spectacular when it's blooming. The mess afterwards is spectacular as well. The flowers do stick to cars if they are not heavily waxed and they are difficult to get out of my rock garden, even with a pretty powerful blower. The flowers break up and are all over the place - tracked in the house and cars, all over the roof and jammed in the gutters. We have to sweep the roof before winter. In fact, we have to sweep 2 to 3 times a week to keep the driveway clean. Yesterday a good sized branch broke off and just missed my Miata, grazed the front but no damage. I have no trouble at all with seedlings or insects. Although this tree can be a pain, to sit in the window in the morning with my coffee and watch the hummingbirds, bees and butterflys ... read moreflock to it is well worth the work!!! When it's in bloom there is nothing that can touch it for beauty. People walking and driving by always admire it. Of course, once out of earshot they probably sigh loudly and give thanks they don't have to clean up the mess. I hope mine lives beyond the average life span.....................................

On Aug 13, 2004, sugarweed from Taylor Creek, FL (Zone 10a) wrote:

As best I can remember that is similar in description to a mesquite tree. As I have a mimosa, I can tell you the sprouts are many, but easy to pull. Incidentally, mesquite was not a preferred cooking wood, but often the only wood available to cook with.

On Aug 13, 2004, marra from Hinesville, GA wrote:

OMG!! I hate the mimosa tree... I have one in my backyard when I moved into this house about 6 months ago... man, my whole back yard is covered with them now! I guess down here in Southeast Georgia they grow rampant. Who knew?

I want to get rid of them, it seems like I have about 40 little trees growing now, and I just don't have the energy to remove them. *sigh* Did I mention I hate the Mimosa tree?

On Aug 4, 2004, broozersnooze from Jacksonville, FL (Zone 9b) wrote:

We had one in our front yard when I was a child. I loved picking the seed pods off & pretending they were vegetables.

The blooms were so delicate & dainty, tickling my nose when I sought to enjoy their fragrance. The blossoms, to me, smell like peaches.

On Aug 3, 2004, mollysmom from Altoona, PA wrote:

I have a Mimosa tree in my yard, I live in central Pennsylvania, where we get pretty severe winters. I was told they don't do well in our area but I've had mine 15 years or more. I started it from a seedling I got from someone. It took several tries before I got one to take.

I'm trying to start several more, One to take the place of mine when it dies(I'm told they only last about 20years) and several to give to people who request starters. I've had many positive comments on this tree. The flowers and the fragrance. The blossoms can be a nuisance on the sidewalk. The next one I will plant a place away from sidewalks or driveways.

On Jul 28, 2004, babyAiden from Columbia, MO wrote:

My next door neighbors have a mature Mimosa (probably 20 feet tall with a 30+ foot spread) just inside their property line. Unfortunately 3/4 of the tree leans over OUR driveway and past that to our front lawn. It has gotten to the point this summer that we cannot even park in our own driveway because the tree drops so many flowers. They stick like glue to the paint of our cars and are nearly impossible to wash off - they won't even fly off at 70 mph! DO NOT plant these trees anywhere near your driveway. We find old flowers under the hood and in the trunk of our cars, they get everywhere! They are killing our roses on the completely opposite side of the driveway, not from lack of sun but because the flowers drop off the tree and die on the rose foliage, killing the foliage. I try to pick t... read morehem off as often as possible, however, that is like trying to stop a dam breaking by corking the hole with a toothpick.

We will be digging up about 10 volunteer Mimosas this fall to give to our friends who love them. Mimosas are much prettier when they aren't messing up my car and roses!

On Jul 23, 2004, hanna1 from Castro Valley, CA (Zone 9a) wrote:

I have to trim mine a lot, branches get heavy and want to bend to ground. Worth all its trouble and mess!!!

On Jul 7, 2004, melody from Benton, KY (Zone 7a) wrote:

I can't bear to give this plant a negative rating even though it's weedy and invasive here in West Kentucky. Mature specemins are quite lovely. Smaller ones pop up along roadsides, fence rows and fields.

Another negative is that my hay fever arrives as this plant blooms and my eyes will get scratchy and 'crummy' if I'm around one very long.

I have fond memories of playing beneath my Aunt Irma's gigantic one (50 feet) We took the little blooms and made ballerina skirts for paper dolls.

On Jun 28, 2004, pokerboy from Canberra,
Australia (Zone 8b) wrote:

I have one of these silk trees outside the kitchen window and it has grown to a large 8.5m. The tree has been attacked by borers and is rotting. Although the tree is rotting it is one of the most beautiful trees I have ever set eyes on. It's soft pink pom pom like blooms will make you drool with envy if you do not have on so go out and buy one as they are reasonably cheap. Definetly in Australia. Grow them only if they are not a weed in your area!!! I get plenty of volenteer seedlings and I usually pot them up and the ones I don't simply die because of the shade the tree gives. They are exteremly drought tolerant. A great one to try in Australia. pokerboy.

On May 19, 2004, misspatrice from Tifton, GA wrote:

Mimosas or "silk tree" (never heard that one) are very common here in South Georgia. I love my mimosa which is planted next to my driveway. It is the most beautiful tree in the neighborhood. I agree with other commentors that it attracts all types of birds and nectar-collecting insects. In January of 1986, this tree was a sucker from a wild tree growing on an imbankment next to the interstate. It was 18" tall with only one thin stalk. I cut the runner root with a shovel, dug a crude hole at the direction of my 5 year old daughter and within 5 years, the tree was large, blooming and wonderful.

The only negative for me is the flowers fall profusely and if you cannot sweep them off the driveway before it rains, they become a slippery, brown, mucky mat. This probably woul... read mored not be a problem on a dirt drive. I was very surprised to learn recently that these trees are prone to disease. Mine is 18 1/2 years old. It requires no pruning as far as I am concerned except to remove dying or peeling limbs and those that hang over the street in the way of traffic.

The pods are wonderful to me because in the autumn breezes, they rattle and make a wonderful "raining" noise. I do not mind the fall of the pods as the dried ones crumble and decompose easily. I do, however, believe that the seeds might be poisonous so small children should be taught never to put the seeds in their mouths.

For those of you wanting to plant a mimosa, don't go to a nursery, just dig a small one up or have a friend send you some seeds. You won't regret it!

On Mar 19, 2004, dlnorton from Riverside, CA wrote:

My folks and I live in Riverside, CA.

About 30 years ago, my folks bought a place with a couple mimosa trees in the front yard. Nice big canopies. Then my dad cut them down. They would have probably been dead by now if he hadn't. BUT..he's been kicking himself ever since for cutting them down. In the last 10 years...he's put in a jacaranda, which seems to have taken off quite well.

In my neck of the city, I see mimosas here and there. There's a house around the corner with a nice big mimosa growing in the front yard. Since I'm a bonsai enthusiast, I'd love to get my mitts on one..!!

They are prone to die-back and look very ugly when dead.

On Jan 2, 2004, clarkie wrote:

Just another non-native species that does not belong here. I spend a lot of time every year digging then up by the hundreds. They are nasty.

On Jul 26, 2003, lewsadk from Paris, IL wrote:

I have one in Paris, IL and there are many more in this area. I purchased mine on Ebay from a grower in SC and have had great results this year. It was dormant for about a month after arrival, but has now taken off! There are other mimosas in my area that are over 10' tall, so these do grow in our zone.

On Jul 9, 2003, Larkie from Camilla, GA (Zone 8a) wrote:

Another pesky, yet very beautiful noxious weed that we grow so well here in south Georgia..I'm guilty!..I have several that I have left around the yard, one is over 40 years old and has a huge spread( my MIL, planted it.)..Every year, I threaten to get rid of it, but just cannot do it. The blooms are so gorgeous..The seedlings each year will make you talk real ugly..LOL..
Larkie

On Jul 2, 2003, riverlady from Georgetown, OH wrote:

I have two 8 year old Mimosa trees in my front yard and I love them. I have also had people admire the trees and ask for seedlings. I live in southwest Ohio along the Ohio River and do have a problem with hundreds of seedlings. I have started several trees for my friends. You can start them either from seed or from seedlings that have sprouted. If you start them from seed, the seed should be soaked in water for 24 hours then nicked on one end before planting. If you start them from sprouted seedlings, just pull them straight up from the ground they were started in and put them in a pot with potting soil. Keep them watered so that the soil is moist but not wet. I put mine in the shade until they are about a foot tall. The seedlings you select should not be very big (2-4 inches). Th... read moree seedlings develop a very long tap root quickly and become hard to pull up and to replant. I hope this helps.

On Jul 1, 2003, tonyah wrote:

I just went to Branson and this tree was all over Missouri. The farthest north I noticed it was just on the west side of St. Louis along the I-44. I first noticed it at the Sheperd of the Hills Fish Hatchery. I commented on how pretty it was to my family. Not being a tree lover or any kind of gardener, my husband thought I was ridiculous when I insisted that he pull over so that I could break off a piece of the branch with flower and leaves to find out what kind of tree it is. A local told me the name.

None of the nurseries here in Peoria, IL carry the tree. They say it isn't hardy up here. I say that our winters cannot be much worse than St. Louis or Branson's. It was just as warm and humid there when I was visiting as it is here now. I'm just in love with this t... read moreree!!! I've read everyone's comments and have room for it in my yard near the highway. I'm only worried about the fusarium wilt and someone's comments about fruit trees because I have a peach tree.

On Jun 26, 2003, GloryRaptor from Rocklin, CA (Zone 9a) wrote:

My parents have some of these trees. They are nearly impossible to kill and grow like crazy. On the bright side, we cut one of them back right to its trunk and it didn't phase it a bit. It had a full size canopy the next spring. You'll want to watch out for those suckers, though. If you want a new sapling you'll have one asap. To give you an idea, there were a couple of suckers in the yard of my parents house that got away from my mother for a couple of seasons when she was dealing with cancer. Because they were already so large when she got back out to work with them, and because they had sprung up right where we had removed another tree, she decided to let them volunteer for the spot the old tree had left vacant. It's been around four years and they are now full fledged trees, wi... read moreth a trunk girth of around six inches.

On Jun 24, 2003, dragoozootoo from Portland, OR wrote:

As the centerpiece of my front yard, I often have people double-park in the street to comment on my BEAUTIFUL silk tree. My tree was planted in the summer of 1996 from a one gallon bucket and now is the "umbrella tree" that allows our neighbors and friends to enjoy a cool drink, shade, enchanting aroma and each others company all summer long! I have over 20 seedlings sprouting in my lower garden!!!

On May 31, 2003, gaysunboy from Seattle, WA wrote:

Also known as Silk Tree, Mimosa is fast growing, deciduous, but short lived (10 - 20 years) and the ferny compound leaves are huge (12 to 18 inches). Its natural range is from Iran to Japan in dry mountain woodlands. It leafs out late (often as late as July) and sheds early. The small leaflets disappear into the grass or flower beds.

It loves heat and dry summers. Be sure site is well drained. Drought tolerant, the wood is weak and brittle, developing 'V' rather than 'U' crotches, if over watered.

Fusarium wilt can be quite a problem and is fatal. It can spread to adjacent Mimosa trees by root contact. Do not prune during wet season. Alway sterilize pruning tools. Make clean, water shedding cuts and treat with broad spectrum fungicide. NEVER USE A PRU... read moreNING SEALER COMPOUND!

The tree is widely planted in Seattle area, where summers are nearly rainless. I have the variety 'Rosea' with deep pink flowers that attract hummingbirds from miles around. The tree is glorious viewed from above.

On May 30, 2003, BJT wrote:

My Mimosa tree grew very tall and was beautiful. It bloomed beautifully for several years. This year my tree turned green and died. The green bark peels off.

On Mar 23, 2003, Kelli from L.A. (Canoga Park), CA (Zone 10a) wrote:

They are messy, dropping flowers and dried pods for months, but they are attractive in bloom and form and the flowers smell good.

As far as I know, they are not invasive in southern California. "Mimosa" is the common name I hear used here.

They are prone to heart rot. Our tree had been severely cut back by previous owners and is now completely rotted out in the center. Otherwise, the tree is healthy and holds up fine to our annual 50+ mph wind gusts.

On Mar 22, 2003, Aprill72 wrote:

I love this "Dr. Seuss" like tree! The things grow wild all over Georgia and I love driving in the summer trying to spot them along the highway. Five summers ago my husband and I found two wild trees and planted them in the yard of our house being built. They have grown almost 8 feet tall despite our Labrador (dog) chewing the largest off about a foot from the ground the first year. They continue to thrive despite our cutting back the long arching limbs each year, but they never get pink flowers. They are still beautiful but I keep hoping for the Dr. Seuss flowers each year. Miracle grow, tree food and scolding aren't getting me flowers.

On Sep 19, 2002, ccallen wrote:

I obtained a silk tree from a nursery. The tree had been trained to have a long trunk (about 5 feet) with branches at the top. This spring as the leaves started to grow, the weight caused the trunk to bend (the tree was upside down after a rainy, windy night).

I tied a 2x4 to the trunk to keep it straight, at about 5 different spots. I didn't have to dig a hole or anything (and disturb the roots), I just cut the board to just fit between the roots and the first branches. This is something they didn't warn me at the nursery, a skinny trunk and huge growth at the top!

Its a beautiful tree. At the end of this summer the branches have grown enough to create a nice canopy. Next year I expect it to really bush out.

On Aug 1, 2002, woodspirit1 from Lake Toxaway, NC (Zone 7a) wrote:

I love this tree. Here in the mountains of North Carolina (U.S.), it blooms for such a long time, 6 weeks to 2 months. Yes the hummingbirds do love it.

The reason it is short-lived is because it contracts a fungus that is deadly. Mimosa is not native, I think it comes from Japan and this fungus does not exist there so it has no immunity.

There used to be a wide road in Savannah called Habersham (or perhaps Abercormbe) that had a wide median. It had 2 rows of Mimosa all the way down it for many blocks. It was a glorious sight; the trees arched out over the pavement so it was a cool, pink tunnel when in bloom. Then all of a sudden, one year, they ALL died! But that impression is still burned in my brain.

On Jul 22, 2002, Chili from Raleigh, NC wrote:

One of the weediest plants I know of. Seedlings come up by the millions. Rumored to live only 15 years but one of mine is over 20 with a 60' spread. Unrivaled in bloom, fuzzy pink fragrant flowers attract hummingbirds. Spent flowers and seed pods make huge mess, especially after rain. Flowers stick to cars like glue. Often becomes lopsided. Form is variable. As a legume, it fixes nitrogen from the atmosphere; plants below the tree seem to benefit from this. Not recommended for most landscape situations. I would not have mine if it weren't for its age and rare perfect multistem shape.