Albizia julibrissin

Albizia julibrissin, the silk tree, is a deciduous tree native to eastern Asia, known for its showy flowers and light, dappled canopy.

Characteristics
A medium sized tree reaching about 6-12 m, with a broad, spreading, umbrella like crown, a short branched trunk and greyish brown bark. The bipinnate leaves are made up of many small light green leaflets and give very light shade; they close at night. From June to September it bears fluffy, spherical heads of pink stamens, sweetly scented and much visited by bees, followed by flat brown pods.

Growing and care
Full sun and well drained soil, even poor or sandy; very drought and heat tolerant once established and salt tolerant, but late frosts can damage young growth. Prune in winter to raise the crown and keep the shape.

Uses
An ideal small shade tree for gardens, terraces, courtyards and seaside plantings, and a fine specimen in mixed borders.