Albizia - Plant Encyclopedia Results

Albizia is a genus of about 150 species of mostly fast-growing subtropical and tropical trees and shrubs. The genus is pantropical, occurring in Asia, Africa, Madagascar, America and Australia, but mostly in the Old World tropics.

Species:

Albizia julibrissin

Albizia lebbeck

Albizia saman

Albizia lebbeck, Mimosa lebbeck is a fast-growing tree, that is susceptible to wind damage. A moderate to large, deciduous tree can grow up to 100 feet high in rain forests. The tree develops a straight trunk when it is grown in dense forests, but is spreading and low branching in the open. Unless trimmed frequently, the trees will annually produce an abundance of seed from papery pods about 8" long and 1" wide (author). Common names such as "woman's tongue" and "rattle pod" derive from the noise of pods shaking in the wind. The foliage is pale green when young and gray-green at maturity. Flowers are cream colored, hemispheric pom-poms. Seeds germinate well without scarification.

The tree is used as a folk remedy for many ailments. Another common use is as an avenue tree, and sometimes it is used to shade coffee and tea. Saponins and tannins in the bark can be used for making soap and in tanning, respectively. Bee keepers like the species for the light-colored honey its nectar provides, and the tree hosts the lac insect.

This tree has attractive fragrant pom-pom- like flowers, and interesting fern-like foliage. In gardens this fast growing tree grows to 20-30 ft. It has a single trunk with smooth, gray bark. Each bi-pinnate leaf is made up of hundreds of tiny leaflets coated in white hairs, giving the foliage a silvery cast. In late winter or spring, the domed crown is decked in sprays of small, globular, off-white to baby-pink flower heads. Prefers a rich, light, well drained soil. The flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.

It is an attractive small tree to about 8m, very fast growing, especially in coastal areas, with long (up to 20 cm) bipinnate leaves. The greenish yellow flowers appear in early June and flowering continues through the winter months and into September. These are followed by dark seed pods up to 10 cm in length. The tree flowers from an early age and because of its quick growing habit makes good cover for other species.

As a fast-growing, large tree, Samanea saman (Monkeypod) can reach heights of up to 80 feet and a width of almost as much. For gardeners who haven't the space, pruning can be done to maintain size. In full sun, this tree can withstand a wide range of climates and temperatures, but generally thrives best in USDA Zones 9-11. The tree prefers moderate water throughout the year, but can tolerate periods of drought.

The long-lasting, pink 'powderpuff' flowers bring a burst of color to the landscape in late summer and early autumn. Deer rarely damage or consume the leaves or flowers. The pods have a sweet, sticky brown pulp, and are fed to cattle in Central America.

When planting Samanea saman, dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and mix equal parts compost and existing soil. Once planted, mulch and water regularly. In cold regions, it's best to grow this tree in a pot. For best growth, the pot should be moved indoors during winter.

This beautiful and easy-to-care-for tree adds a stunning and unique touch to any landscape. Its height, shade, and color make it an ideal accompaniment to any garden.