Albizia julibrissin is a tree from the bean family, Fabaceae, originating in Asia and introduced to

Albizia julibrissin is a tree from the bean family, Fabaceae, originating in Asia and introduced to Europe in the mid 1700s. The genus is taken from the name of the person who introduced it, Filippo deglo Albizzi, while the specific name comes from the original Persian word for the plant which translates to “silk flower.” Likewise, the common name for this plant, Persian Silk Tree, encompasses both the origin and one of many ways the tree is described. The fluffy flower clusters produce a very pleasant scent and draw in pollinators such as honeybees and butterflies who benefit from its nectar. It is primarily used as an ornamental plant in climates which experience hot weather and when a lot of extra water cannot be spared. Unfortunately the plant does have great potential to become invasive and the seed pods which burst in strong winds can spread the seeds widely. Furthermore, the seeds can lie dormant for long periods which makes that potential even more significant.