Albizia Lophantha, commonly known as Plume Albizia or Albizia lebbeck in temperate and subtropical regions of the world, is a perennial, deciduous tree, native to Asia.
It is often used in tropical regions for erosion control, as a source of hardwood, and as a forage crop.
Because it reproduces swiftly and offers a high rate of nitrogen fixation, it can become invasive if not kept under control.
The Albizia (Albizia lophantha) tree is renowned for its magnificent summer blooming.
Plume Albizia is known by several common names, including:
- Plume Albizia
- Albizia lebbeck
- Mimosa Tree
- Lubeck
- Indian Siris
- Flea tree
- Frywood
- Koko
- Woman’s tongue
Quick Facts on Albizia Lophantha
- Family: Leguminosae
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 22° to 23° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Little watering except in drought conditions
- Fertilizer: Acidic fertilizer
- Propagation: Seeds or cutting croppings
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, spider mites
Albizia Lophantha Care
How Big Do Plume Albizia Grow?
Depending on where it is planted, the Plume Albizia can grow up to 20’ to 40 feet.
When Does Plume Albizia Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
The soft pink flowers of Plume Albizia are mildly fragrant and bloom from July to August.
What Are the Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Somewhat hardy, the Plume Albizia prefers full sun.
Plume albizia enjoys being near bright, sunny windows. To maximize growth potential, place it at a distance of fewer than 1ft from any south-facing windows.
They will not tolerate low light. Though they can survive a mild freed, most plants tolerate anything above 22° degrees Fahrenheit.
How And When to Water And Fertilize Plume Albizia?
If grown outside, the water and fertilizer requirements of albizia lophantha are quite low.
However, if you plan on showing these beauties inside, here are some tips on potting for use inside your home:
Apply 0.5 cups of water every 9 days to your plume albizia when it doesn’t get direct sunlight and when it is potted in a 5.0″ pot.
Most potting soils contain plenty of nutrients that plants can use to grow new growth.
However, your albizia lophantha will probably have grown to the point has exhausted all the nutrients in its soil when it needs a bigger growing space.
What Is the Best Soil for Albizia Lophantha, And When Should You Transplant?
Ordinary garden soil is more than sufficient for both outdoor and indoor plants.
Like any other tree, Mimosa trees are easier to transplant if they are young.
If a smaller sapling is moved, it will have a higher survival rate than an older tree. Sometimes, it is necessary to move larger trees.
It doesn’t matter what method you choose because safely transplanting a mimosa will require some preparation.
The best time to transplant established trees is in the late fall or early winter after all leaves have fallen.
Repot your Plume albizia once it has doubled in size, or once a calendar year to replenish its nutrients.
Does Albizia Lophantha Need Special Grooming or Maintenance?
Albizia can be an easy tree because it needs almost no care.
It is best to let its branches grow freely and frequently cut down suckers (the shoots at the tree’s base).
You don’t have to wait for your Alizia to stop blooming to maintain its umbrella-like shape.
How to Propagate Albizia Trees?
It is necessary to nick the seeds of the plume tree with a file because they are very hard.
Here’s how to do it:
- Before planting the seeds, soak them in warm water for 24 hours.
- Alternatively, pour boiling water over the seeds and leave them to soak for 24 hours.
- Once they swell, plant the seeds.
- In January, use a mixture of commercial potting compost and sphagnum to plant the seeds in small pots.
I love watching the seeds sprout because the roots of the seedling actually push the seed right out of the ground!
After they have been potted, the plants grow extremely fast.
Albizia Tree Pests And Diseases
Plume Albizias often exhibit signs of spider mite attack.
Early discovery of the mite problem allows the plant to be moved to reduce the spread of the mites.
In addition, a daily shower with water can discourage spider mites.
In overwintering, plants die because they are allowed to dry out or because water is left standing in the dish under the pot.
Mealy bugs look like woolly specks on the plant. Use a sharp knife to remove pests and an alcohol-diluted cloth to clean affected areas.
Is the Albizia Tree Considered Toxic or Poisonous To People, Kids, Pets?
From August to September, seedpods appear on the albizia tree and begin to ripen. Those seeds contain a neurotoxin called ginkgo toxin.
Consuming the seeds can pose a danger to livestock, pets, children, and horses.
Albizia tree seeds can cause the following effects:
- Gastric upset
- Stomach pains
- Lethargy
- Seizures
The seeds can be fatal in animals and adults if not treated immediately.