Mimosa Trees

Mimosa trees reproduce both vegetatively and by seed. It is best to plant them in an area that does not receive a lot of foot traffic to help with leaf and seed pod litter. Regular raking and removal of this litter will help prevent unwanted mimosa seedlings. A good pruning for these trees is recommended during the dormant season to help their drooping limbs stay strong. The average life span of a mimosa tree is 20 years, which is shorter than many other flowering trees. However, they are fairly easy to propagate from seed and fast growers, so growing a replacement tree is right at your fingertips.

The mimosa truly offers something for everyone interested in beauty. Native to Asia and Africa, this tree has found a home from Pennsylvania to South Florida, and all the way across the Central United States to California. This deciduous tree is low branching with light gray bark, arching limbs, and fern-like green leaves. The show stealer comes in the summer with the Mimosa's brilliantly colored flowers which consist of many stamens.

In full or partial sun this tree is sure to thrive. It is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained, acidic soil; although it is extremely adaptable to many soil conditions. This tree's fragrant flowers are an instant attraction to butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees who are natural pollinators for the flowers in your bed and the fruit on your trees and vines. Another fine aspect of this tree is that the leaves curl in the night air and unfurl in the morning sun giving this tree the moniker of "Sleeping Tree". As you can see, this tree really does offer something for every planting enthusiast.