How to Cultivate Mimosa Trees


You may have heard of a mimosa tree as the silk tree or silky acacia tree, as many people call it. It is a tropical plant, native to Japan and Iran, and tends to propagating itself quite successfully from seed. The fern-like leaves show off pink and white, fragrant, feathery flowers that look like round fluff balls. The tree does not get that large, ranging in height from 20 to 40 feet so homeowners can use it in a backyard setting if they want to cultivate it on their property. Cultivating a mimosa tree doesn't take a lot of maintenance.

Step 1

Select an area where the tree can get full sun and where the soil drains water easily. It can tolerate many soils, but it prefers a neutral pH loamy soil with lots of organic material. Unfortunately, authorities have listed this tree as an invasive species in many areas, so make sure you are allowed to plant it in your area before you get too involved.

Step 2

Water and prune your tree as it grows. You don't have to do much else as the tree grows like a weed. Prune it to prevent breakage and to strengthen the inner structure. It can tolerate drought conditions for a little while, but it looks tropical if it gets plenty of water.

Step 3

Collect any seeds or seed pods that fall. One tree can start thousands of new seedlings unless they are collected and the spread is controlled. If you do miss some and see the seedlings coming up, keep them under control by spraying them with an herbicide or picking them by hand.


  • Department. of Agriculture. Forest Service: Alba Mimosa Tree
  • National Park Service: Silk Tree
Keywords: Growing a silk tree, Cultivating a Mimosa tree, controlling a mimosa tree

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