Invasive, Exotic Plants of the Southeast

Mimosa

Common Name: Mimosa

Scientific Name: Albizia julibrissin

Identification: Mimosa is a deciduous tree that may reach 50 feet in height.  The tree has bipinnately compound leaves that have 20-60 leaflets that are feathery and fernlike.  The tree will produce dangling pods in the summer that will persist through the winter.  The bark is light brown or gray with raised dots and dashes.  The small, fragrant pink blossoms appear from May to July.

Ecology: Mimosa colonizes by root sprouts and seeds that are spread by animals and water.  Seeds are viable for many years.  The tree will form dense stands in riparian areas or dry sites, generally along forest edges.

Plant Control:Cut down large trees with a chainsaw and treat outer two inches of cut surface of stump with undiluted glyphosate concentrate (53.8% is preferable). Large saplings can be treated in a similar fashion, taking care to treat the entire cut surface.  If seed pods are present on cut limbs, collect and bag these and dispose of in heavy garbage bag so they do not sprout.  Monitor for seedlings and control as needed.
 
Alternative Native Species: Red Buckeye (Aesculus pavia), Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

When using herbicides remember to follow label-recommendations.  Any mention of trade, products, or firm names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by North Carolina State University.

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