Practical information to identify and manage non-native, invasive plants
The Quiet Invasion:A Guide to Invasive Plants of the Galveston Bay Area
Albizia julibrissin
| USDA Symbol: | ALJU |
| ITIS TSN: | 26449 |
| Presence: | Current Invaders |
| Habitat: | Terrestrial |
| Native Range: | Asia; from Iran to Japan |
Toxic Characteristics
Produces a neurotoxin in the seed pods that can cause seizures and even death upon ingestion. Livestock and pets are especially susceptible.Geographic Distribution
Naturalized in the Southeastern U.S., but reaches as far north as New York and west to Missouri. Also naturalized in portions of California. Found in all counties of the Lower Galveston Bay watershed.Introduction Pathways
This species was brought to the United States in the mid 1700s as an ornamental for its showy blossoms.Specific Primary Habitats
Tolerant to a wide range of soils, and given a seed source, will invade most disturbed areas. Prefers full sun, and is often found in roadsides, vacant lots, and fallow fields, as well as riparian areas.Identifying Characteristics
As a small tree, mimosa takes on an overall umbrella shape, often with multiple trunks. Bark is smooth and gray-brown. Alternate bipinnately compound leaves reach 20 inches in length. Leaflets are very numerous and are small and narrow. Flowers are pink, fragrant, resemble pom-poms, and occur in clusters at the end of branches. Fruit is a brown, elongated, 3-6 inch long bean-like pod.Reproduction Characteristics
A single plant can produce over 200,000 seeds each year. Blooms April to July, and fruit ripens in August to September. Fruit remains on trees into December, after which fallen seeds are readily transported by water. Also reproduces from cut stumps.Growth Characteristics
Short-lived but grows rapidly, reaching a maximum of 50 feet in height. Untreated cut stumps rapidly resprout, which can grow over 3 feet in height in one season.Ecological, Economic, or Social Impact
Mimosa spreads into natural areas and lowers native species diversity. Once established, it is very difficult eradicate due to the persistence of seeds. Harbors a wilt disease that is potentially harmful to other trees.Suggested Control Methods
An herbicide-free method is to make deep cuts around the base of the tree 6 in. above ground. Alternatively, apply a 25% water solution of triclopyr to a freshly cut stump. A 2% solution of glyphosate is effective on foliage of smaller flowering plants.|
Native Species Alternatives
Below is a list of alternative plants that are native to the area:
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Lists
This species belongs to the following lists:
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Images
To view a larger version of an image, click on the thumbnail. Seed pods of the silktree mimosa. Photo courtesy of James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 0016012. |
 Close-up of flowers of the silktree mimosa. Photo courtesy of Ted Bodner, Southern Weed Science Society, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 0016013. |
 Close-up of developing flowers of the silktree mimosa. Photo courtesy of Chris Evans, The University of Georgia, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 1264034. |
 Large stand of silktree mimosa. Photo courtesy of James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 2307018. |