Contents
Description
Albizia Lebbeck, also known as the Indian Siris or Woman’s Tongue Tree, is a deciduous tree from the Legume family. It is native to tropical regions of Asia and is widely cultivated for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a broad, spreading crown. Albizia Lebbeck is known for its delicate, fern-like leaves and fragrant, showy flowers that bloom in clusters of white and yellow during the summer. The tree also produces long, brown pods that contain small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|————-|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Magnoliophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Fabales|| Family| Fabaceae|| Genus| Albizia|| Species| Albizia Lebbeck |
Appearance
The Albizia Lebbeck tree has a smooth, gray-brown bark that becomes rough with age. Its leaves are bipinnate, meaning they are divided into small leaflets that are arranged on opposite sides of the stem. The leaflets are oblong in shape, with a pointed tip and a smooth edge. The tree’s flowers are its most striking feature, with soft, white petals and long, yellow stamens that give them a fluffy appearance. The flowers bloom in large clusters that can be up to 30 cm long. The tree’s fruit is a long, flat pod that can grow up to 30 cm in length and contains small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Albizia Lebbeck thrives in warm, humid climates and requires well-draining soil. The tree prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Albizia Lebbeck is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Albizia Lebbeck is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, mealybugs, scales, and powdery mildew. Regular inspection of the tree and the use of insecticidal soaps can help prevent infestations. Proper watering and pruning can also help prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Habitat
Albizia Lebbeck is native to tropical regions of Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. The tree is widely cultivated in other tropical regions for its ornamental and medicinal properties. It grows best in warm, humid climates and can tolerate a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Albizia Lebbeck a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Albizia Lebbeck has a broad, spreading crown that provides ample shade.
Q: Can Albizia Lebbeck grow in containers?
A: Yes, Albizia Lebbeck can be grown in containers but may require frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Is Albizia Lebbeck a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Albizia Lebbeck is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 meters per year.
Q: Is Albizia Lebbeck used in traditional medicine?
A: Yes, Albizia Lebbeck has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, asthma, and skin disorders.
Related Plants
– Albizia julibrissin (Silk Tree)- Albizia saman (Rain Tree)- Albizia odoratissima (Black Siris)- Albizia procera (White Siris)
References
– “Albizia Lebbeck.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 July 2021,
