Difference Between Mimosa & Mimosa Silk

There are many mimosa species.

There are more than 300 species of mimosa belonging to the bean (leguminosae) family. A small species is the mimosa pudica, which should not be confused with the hardy mimosa, often known as the silk tree.

Features

The mimosa pudica is a perennial plant that grows to about 18 inches. The silk tree (albizia julibrissin) is a fast-growing deciduous tree that can reach a height of 35 feet.

Origins

The silk tree is originally from China, and has been grown in the southeastern United States since the 18th century. Dr. T. Ombrello writes that the mimosa pudica is "native to Brazil butis naturalized throughout the tropics of America, Asia and Africa." It is considered a wild weed in the Gulf States.

Function

The fragrant silk tree is used as a lawn accent around decks, porches and patios with its leafy canopy allowing enough light to let grass grow up to its trunk, but also providing shade. The shrubby mimosa pudica is a perennial that is cultivated as a garden annual.

Fun Fact

The mimosa pudica is also known as the sensitive plant. This is because of its nyctinastic movements, which cause the leaflets to fold together in the evening and droop until sunrise. Additionally, the mimosa pudica has seismonastic movements, which cause the leaves to fold when touched or shaken, or in response to chemical or electrical stimuli.

References

• Floridata: Albizia julibrissin
• Union County College Plant of the Week: The Sensitive Plant