Albizia julibissin – Persian Silk Tree, Height 60–80 cm, 2-litre pot

Albizia julibrissin, better known as the Persian silk-cotton tree, is a remarkable ornamental tree with an exotic appearance. Its airy crown, finely pinnate leaves and striking pink, silky flowers make it a real eye-catcher in any garden. Particularly during the summer, when the tree is in full bloom, it creates a Mediterranean atmosphere.

This plant has been grown from seed. As a result, every tree is unique and there may be slight variations in growth habit or leaf colour. It is precisely this that makes a seedling special and gives each tree its own character.

Why choose Albizia julibrissin?

• Spectacular pink silk flowers in summer
• Fine, fern-like leaves with a subtle reddish-green hue
• The leaves close of their own accord as evening falls
• Graceful, parasol-shaped growth habit
• Attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators
• An exotic look for the garden

Contents of this product

• 1 x Albizia julibrissin – Persian silk-cotton tree (seedling)
- Pot size: 2 litres
• Height on delivery: approx. 60–80 cm (approximate)

The tree is supplied in a nursery pot and will continue to grow after planting. The height on delivery is approximate and may vary depending on the season and stage of growth.

On growth and flourishing

Albizia julibrissin grows into an elegant tree about 6 to 10 metres tall. As the tree matures, it develops a broad, open crown with graceful, horizontally spreading branches that create a beautiful parasol effect.

The bipinnate leaves have a fine, airy texture. Young leaves often have a subtle reddish to bronze-coloured tinge, before maturing to a fresh green to dark green. This creates a vibrant display of colour throughout the growing season.

A distinctive feature of the sleeping tree is that its leaves close automatically in the evening and open again the following morning. The leaves may also close temporarily when it rains or during transport. This is a natural characteristic of the plant and is completely normal.

From June to September, the distinctive silky pink flowers appear. These consist of delicate stamens and attract large numbers of bees, bumblebees and butterflies.

Care

The Persian sleep tree grows best in a warm, sunny and sheltered spot. The more sun the tree receives, the more profuse the flowering will generally be.

Well-drained soil is important. The tree tolerates drought reasonably well once it is well-rooted, but it does not tolerate persistently wet soil as well.

Water young trees regularly during dry spells, especially in the first few years after planting.

Prune

Albizia naturally has an attractive growth habit and does not usually need pruning.

If desired, damaged or unwanted branches can be removed in the spring. The plant tolerates light pruning well.

Winter care

Albizia julibrissin is reasonably hardy and can withstand temperatures down to around -15°C.

Young trees in particular can benefit from extra protection during severe frosts or in open, windy locations. As the tree gets older, its hardiness increases further.

In winter, the tree sheds its leaves and sprouts new ones again in spring.

For lovers of exotic garden trees

The Persian sleep tree is a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a unique eye-catcher with a Mediterranean feel. It pairs beautifully with fig trees, palms, banana plants, crape myrtles and other exotic or drought-tolerant plants.

With its graceful crown, striking flowers and unique swaying motion, Albizia julibrissin is one of the most popular exotic trees for Dutch gardens.