Question
Dear Mr. Bachman,

I live in North Carolina and I have a rather large Mimosa Tree in my back yard that appears to be dead.  This is the only Mimosa Tree I have.

Last year it bloomed beautifully but this year it hasn't done anything.

The trunk and the branches of the tree have a green, moldy look with white spots and the bark is peeling and falling off.  The wood under the bark looks like it has rotted.

I don't know much about trees but I think it's time to cut this one down.  I hate to lose it because it attracts Humming Birds and Butterflies.

Any suggestions you can give me as soon as possible would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you.

Paula C. Benoit  

Answer
Paula,

Unfortunately your tree has succumbed to mimosa wilt caused by a soil borne fungus called fusarium.  Mimosa trees are susceptable at any time and the fungus casues a quick death of the tree.  The give-away are the white spots you described in your question.  

There fusarium tolerant trees in the trade but it is not a guarantee if you planted another that it would survive any better.  

Sorry

If you are satisfied with my response please consider nominating me for volunteer of the month