How to Grow a Mimosa Tree

Also known as silk tree, mimosa tree (Albizia julibrissin) is a fast growing deciduous member of the bean family that can grow up to 3 feet per year, eventually reaching heights up to 40 feet. Mimosa tree is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions, requiring little to no care to produce an attractive canopy of fernlike leaves and fluffy, fragrant blooms. The tree may not be suitable for Florida gardens, as the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council lists mimosa tree as an invasive exotic plant.

Mimosa tree is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 6 to 9, where it will produce its best growth in full sunlight. The tree will also tolerate partial or light shade. Because sun can penetrate the tree's open canopy -- which may spread 20 to 50 feet -- grass can grow right up to the trunk of the tree, making mimosa tree an excellent lawn accent. However, when planted near a home or walkway, dropped flowers, seed pods and leaves can become a hassle to clean up.

Mimosa tree will grow in a wide range of soil types, including poor, alkaline soils. A well-draining soil enhanced with 2 to 4 inches of organic matter such as shredded leaves, peat moss or dehydrated manure is ideal. Mimosa tree tolerates salty soils but will suffer if planted in a garden with direct maritime exposure. The tree does well in high summer temperatures and will tolerate drought, though weekly waterings during dry periods will boost growth. Fertilizer is not necessary for this tree: Plants for a Future notes that in highly fertile soils, the tree produces soft growth which is susceptible to frost damage.

Verticillium wilt is a common mimosa tree disease that causes symptoms such as faded, wilted foliage, branch dieback and, occasionally, death of the entire tree. Removing bark on infected branches may showcase wet-looking dark spots. Help prevent the disease by irrigating your tree during long dry periods, as stressed trees are more likely to develop problems. Prune out dead branches, disinfecting your pruning equipment with a mixture of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water to avoiding spreading the disease. Do not plant mimosa tree in areas where verticillium wilt has been a problem in the past.

Mimosa tree may be propagated by seed. To aid in germination, scratch the surface of the hard seed with a file or knife and soak in boiling water or sulfuric acid. Let the seed cool for 24 hours, then plant directly in a sunny area of the garden during the growing season. Established mimosa trees often self-seed, sometimes to the point of becoming a nuisance. Saplings flower in about 3 years.