What Is the Origin of Mimosa Trees?

Mimosa tree flower

The mimosa tree originated in Asia, from Iran to China. There are 50 species of the mimosa tree found in Asia, Africa, and Australia. According to the Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health, the mimosa tree was introduced to the United States in 1745.

Scientific Name

The botanical name for the mimosa tree is Albizia julibrissin.

Common Name

Besides being known as the mimosa tree, it is also referred to as "silk tree" and "silky acacia."

Family

The mimosa tree belongs to the Fabaceae (Leguminosae) family, an economically important family of flowering plants. The Fabaceae is the third largest family of flowering plants.

Features

The mimosa tree is a hardy multiple-trunk tree that can reach heights of 10 to 15 feet. It is delicate looking with leaves that resemble ferns. The tree flowers in the summer and fruits in late summer with long, flat seed pods. Mimosas are usually found in disturbed habitats where they are hard to remove.

Geography

In the United States, the mimosa tree is found from Virginia to Louisiana and California.

Warning

The mimosa tree has been placed on the Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Invasive Plant List.

References

• Southeast Exotic Pest Plant Council Invasive Plant Manual: Mimosa
• Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health
• Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, University of Florida, IFAS: Mimosa Trees