Mimosa Trees & Aphids

Mimosa trees are covered in fluffy pink or white flowers in summer.

Growing 20 to 35 feet high and wide, mimosa trees (Albizia julibrissin) are common patio trees in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 6 through 9. However, the trees are short-lived and have many problems.

Aphids

Aphids are not listed as a common mimosa problem. Should you find a light infestation of aphids on your tree, wash them off with a strong stream of water from the garden hose. Heavy infestations require insecticide use.

Other Pests

Pests that commonly infest mimosas include bagworms, scale insects, mites and mimosa webworms. Bagworms can be controlled by removing the bags by hand, but other pests must be treated with insecticides.

Disease

Particularly in the Southeast, mimosa is susceptible to mimosa wilt, a fungal vascular disease that spreads rapidly from tree to tree. Infected trees should be destroyed and replaced by a different type of tree.

Other Problems

Mimosa trees are extremely brittle, making them susceptible to storm damage. The seeds sprout easily enough that the tree is considered an invasive pest in Florida and other parts of its range.

References

• North Carolina State University: Albizia Julibrissin
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Albizia Julibrissin Alba
• Virginia Tech: Insects of Trees, Shrubs, Annuals, and Perennials
• University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Mimosa Wilt