Albizia julibrissin Ombrella ('Boubri') (PBR)
silk tree Ombrella
This exotic-looking small tree has really attractive feathery foliage that looks pretty from spring to autumn, but it's in late summer, when the small clusters of deep pink flowers appear, that it really starts to dazzle. Plant it where it will get lots of sun and a little shelter from the worst of the winter weather, in freely draining soil. It's a magnificent specimen that will add an exotic feel to the planting scheme.
How to care for Albizia julibrissin Ombrella ('Boubri') (PBR):
Plant in a warm, sheltered spot in full sun with free-draining soil, ideally sandy or loamy, to reduce the risk of root rot over winter. In colder areas, choose a south-facing wall or use horticultural fleece for frost protection during severe cold snaps. Avoid excessively heavy soils or those prone to waterlogging.
Water well during dry spells in the first couple of years while the tree establishes, but reduce watering once mature. Add a top-dressing of a general-purpose fertiliser around the base in late spring to support growth and flowering. No routine pruning is needed, but remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant.
Water well during dry spells in the first couple of years while the tree establishes, but reduce watering once mature. Add a top-dressing of a general-purpose fertiliser around the base in late spring to support growth and flowering. No routine pruning is needed, but remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late autumn or winter when the tree is dormant.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
6m
Eventual spread:
4m
Position:
Full sun
Rate of growth:
Average
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Borderline hardy (will need protection in winter in colder areas)
-
This tree is deciduous so it will lose all its leaves in autumn, then fresh new foliage appears again each spring.
