English name/ Common name- Silk tree, Persian silk tree, Mimosa
Local name- ಪರ್ಷಿಯನ್ ರೇಷ್ಮೆ ಮರ
Botanical name- Albizia julibrissin
Appearance- Persian silk tree is a deciduous tree. It can grow up to 20–40 feet in height. It has angular, glabrous branches with many lenticels. The leaves are dark green with a fern-like appearance. The flowers are pink and fluffy. The flowers bloom from mid-spring to late summer. The fruit is a flat brown bean-like seed pod about 7 inches long. The bark is greenish-grey and develops vertical stripes.
Origin- The species is native to southwestern and eastern Asia, from Eastern Azerbaijan to China and Korea.
Conditions required for growth- The Persian Silk tree grows in sandy, loamy and clayey soils, but it prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. It can grow in acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate strong winds but not maritime exposure.
Uses- The Persian silk tree with its exotic flowers and leaves is widely planted as an ornamental plant in parks and gardens. The Persian silk tree extract offers some cosmetic benefits. It boosts cell energy, revitalizes tired skin, supports the skin’s natural detoxification process, and tightens weak contours – for a fresh and smooth complexion. The tree's flower heads have been used for a wide range of digestive, sedative, and tonic medicinal purposes. Sweetly-scented flowers are a good nectar source for honeybees.
Hazards- There is toxicity of pods and seeds to humans and animals; some parts of the plant may contain a neurotoxin. Consult with a medical professional expert before eating or feeding.
