Albizia julibrissin 'Summer Chocolate'
(Purple-leaf Momosa Tree)
Hybridizer: Yokoi (2000)
Family: Hippocastanaceae (Horse-chestnut)
Light: Full sun
Height: 20'
Width: 15'
Blooms: Fragrant, clusters, pink, mid-Summer
Foliage: Showy, deciduous, fern-like, large, burgundy, leaflets, opposite
Soil: Well-drained, alkaline, drought tolerant when established
Water: Regular-low
Fertilizer: Well-balance, during growth season
Uses: Foliage, butterfly garden, bird garden, bee garden, landscape, Summer interest
Patent: Patented
Propagation: Seeds, suckers, cuttings (Late Winter)
Caution: Plant can be invasive
Comments: Albizia julibrissin 'Summer Chocolate' or Purple-leaf Momosa Tree is a hybrid perennial with an upright, moderate, spreading growth habit. It has exquisite, deciduous, fern-like foliage which emerges burgundy when young then turns to green in Spring and in Summer, it tuns to a gorgeous, deep burgundy-chocolatey color. In mid-Summer, Albizia julibrissin 'Summer Chocolate' produces clusters of fragrant pink, pom-pom-like blossoms, followed later by seeds. Butterflies and bees are magnetized by the nectar-rich blossoms while the birds enjoy feasting on the seeds. Purple-leaf Mimosa Tree is easily produce by suckers or cuttings taken in late Winter; seeds however would not come true to parent. It thrives best in well-drained, alkaline soil in a sunny environment. Albizia julibrissin 'Summer Chocolate' is low maintenance and tolerates drought when established. It can be invasive. Purple-leaf Mimosa Tree adds a tropical flair and delightful fragrance to the Summer landscape. It is very showy and attracts a lot of attention. Albizia julibrissin 'Summer Chocolate' is a welcoming addition to Jenny's Garden.
USDA Zones: 6b-10
