Albizia, though a magnificent tree, can be a truly invasive weed in places where it isn’t native. On continents other than Asia, there’s a risk of this tree spreading fast.
It’s officially an invasive weed in the United States. These maps show what the native range of Albizia is. For the United States, more detailed maps show where the tree has been sighted. Perhaps you can join in on efforts to help control it!
Invasive Albizia and Native range
Native to – Central and Eastern Asia
Invasive in – United States of America
Although not as prolific a seeder as other trees such as invasive tamarisk, this particular species of mimosa tree has seeds that can stay dormant for a very long time. Like the non-native Russian olive tree, it also grows back vigorously when chopped down.
Albizia julibrissin, also called the silk tree, grows natively in Central and East Asia.
Thanks to its nice flowers that look like miniature fireworks, botanists started planting it all over the planet in gardens and parks. They thought it would make for a swell ornamental. In reality, whenever the climate is suitable, the tree spreads fast and displaces native trees.
Today, efforts are underway to limit and control it. Such regulations are only well-structured in a few states in the southeast of the United States. Elsewhere, as in Australia and Canada, the species is still under observation.
Native range: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Bangladesh (likely), China, India, Iran, Japan, Korea, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Taiwan
The Early Detection and Distribution Mapping System, managed by the University of Georgia (USA), tracks and maps out any sightings of Albizia julibrissin. You can help out and submit sightings in your area here.
Their map is accurate down to county level. Here is the up-to-date version:
This problem tree has spread through the SouthEast of the country. Several states have outlawed propagation, planting and sale of the plant. In pink, red and black: states that have passed laws or regulations to control the spread of this non-native mimosa tree.
With smartphones, it becomes increasingly easy to report this invasive mimosa species when you see one. The EDDMapS app (for phones and tablets) gathers GPS location data and forwards it to the agency that can best help control the weed.
