Overview

Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin) belongs in the family Fabaceae/Leguminosae, which includes beans. Their fern-like foliage and clusters of pink, fragrant flowers make them attractive specimen trees in the landscape. Mimosa trees will grow well planted outdoors in USDA planting zones 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10. This deciduous tree can reach 40 feet tall at maturity and grows quite quickly, adding more than 3 feet in height each year. Propagation is through planting the seeds. Mimosa trees are so easy to grow that even a novice gardener will have success.

Step 1

Pick the seeds after they have naturally dried on the tree and begun to split open. Seedpods will form after the mimosa has finished blooming, usually in late summer and early fall.

Step 2

Pick the seedpod when its ripe and break open the shell, releasing the seeds. Nick the seed with a file to break through its tough exterior. This will make propagation easier and quicker.

Step 3

Fill a container with warm water and place the mimosa seed into it. Allow the seed to soak in the water for approximately one hour.

Step 4

Fill a 4-inch container with a lightweight, well-draining potting mix. Pack down lightly with your hands to firm up the soil.

Step 5

Stick a finger into the soil in the center of the container and make a 1-inch indentation in the soil. Place the seed into the indentation and cover it with soil. Pack it down lightly.

Step 6

Water the container until water runs out through the drain holes. Keep the soil moist until the mimosa begins to germinate in approximately three to four weeks. Continue to water the seedling two to three times per week, depending on local weather conditions. Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy.

Step 7

Situate the container in an area that receives sunlight during the day. The mimosa requires at least four hours of direct sunlight each day to sprout.