Description

Albizia – Paraserianthes

There are about 150 species of fast growing short lived deciduous trees and shrubs and of climber often found in poor soil in sub tropic and tropic regions of Africa, Asia to Australia in this genus.  It bears attractive feathery leaves and densely clustered globular small pink, cream, or white flowers in which stamens are far longer and more noticeable then the petals.  After flowers, flattened pods appear.  Both foliage seedpods provide nutritious feed for livestock and the powered bark as been used as soap. Under glass grow in soil based potting mix in full light with shade from hot sun and water freely during growing season and apply a liquid balanced fertilizer monthly.  Water sparingly in winter. Position in full light with shade from hot sun. Outdoors they require moisture and warm summer in moderate fertile to poor soil that’s well drained in full sun. Prone spider mites, white flies, and a variety of fungi cause twig dieback and gall, and vascular wilts. Albizia lebbeck – White Siris – Woman’s Tongue Tree – This fast growing, flat top tree is native to Asia, Australia, and tropical Africa grows 30’ feet tall but can reach 60’ feet in ideal conditions.  The feathery pinnate leaves are composed of oblong leaflets 2” long, which may shed in a dry season.  In late spring perfumed greenish powder puff inflorescences followed by long thin pods that rattle in the wind.  The timber is valued among cabin workers. Zones 10-12