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persian silk tree

The Persian silk tree, also known as Albizia julibrissin, is a stunning deciduous tree prized for its airy, fern-like foliage and delicate, powder-puff flowers. Originating from Asia, it has become a favourite among New Zealand gardeners thanks to its fast growth, elegant structure, and ability to create a lush, tropical feel in a variety of landscapes. The Persian silk tree is especially admired for its distinctive pink blooms, which appear in mid to late summer, attracting bees, butterflies, and garden admirers alike.

A Parrotia persica (Persian Ironwood) specimen tree with colourful, orange foliage in autumn.

Parrotia persica

Parrotia persica, commonly known as the Persian Ironwood Tree, is a small tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours. The foliage emerges light green in spring, darkens during summer, then turns a myriad of brilliant orange and purple colours in autumn before falling. The Persian Ironwood grows as a broadly spreading tree, reaching approximately 8 m in height and 6 m in width. Parrotia persica is often grown in medium to extensive gardens either as a specimen or included in a mixed planting. It is also well-suited to avenue planting.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 8.00 m
Spread: 6.00 m
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Backyard, Frontyard, Japanese
Strobilanthes gossypinus up close with grey leaves.

Strobilanthes gossypinus

Strobilanthes gossypinus, commonly known as the Persian Shield, is an evergreen shrub grown for its lush foliage. It features grey-green leaves that are covered with fine hairs. These mid-sized, showy leaves are held densely off sturdy stems as it grows to 1 m tall and 1.5 m wide. Strobilanthes gossypinus is commonly included in a mixed planting, planted around outdoor living areas such as pools, maintained in a container, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants. Its foliage also makes it suitable for inclusion in a tropical garden, providing excellent texture.

Suited to regions: Subtropical
Plant type: Shrubs
Height: 1.00 m
Spread: 1.50 m
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Pool areas
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Rock, Tropical
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach, commonly known as Bead Tree, White Cedar or Persian Lilac, is a fast-growing deciduous tree admired for its feathery foliage and...

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A Parrotia persica 'Pendula' specimen tree with pendulous green foliage.
Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood)

Parrotia persica 'Pendula', commonly known as the Weeping Persian Ironwood, is a tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours and weeping growth...

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A stunning Albizia julibrissin 'Red Silk' tree with masses of red flowers.
Albizia 'Red Silk'

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The Jute Tree Tie is non-abrasive and very popular because it wont cause tree damage. The 50 mm wide fabric is heavy duty and designed to support...

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Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' pink flowers and lush, green foliage.
Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea'

Albizia julibrissin 'Rosea' (Silk Tree) is a stunning deciduous tree valued for its graceful spreading canopy, fern like foliage, and masses of...

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'Bearss' Lime green fruit.
Lime Bearss

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Fraxinus Purple Spire is a popular variety of the commonly known, Claret Ash, and is grown for its impressive form and brilliant autumn colours. It...

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Metrosideros excelsa (Pohutukawa) specimen tree with masses of red flowers in a coastal location.
Metrosideros excelsa (Pōhutukawa)

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Parrotia persica

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Search persian silk tree

Features and Benefits of the Persian Silk Tree

The Persian silk tree stands out for its unique features. Reaching up to 5–7 metres in New Zealand conditions, it forms a spreading canopy that provides dappled shade—perfect for relaxing under on sunny days. Its finely divided leaves give a soft, almost feathery appearance, and at dusk, the leaves gently fold, adding a touch of movement and intrigue to the garden.

This tree thrives in well-draining soils and full sun, making it versatile for many Kiwi gardens. It's relatively drought-tolerant once established, so it's a great choice for low-maintenance landscapes. Whether you’re looking to create an inviting feature tree, provide filtered shade, or attract pollinators, the Persian silk tree delivers both visual appeal and practical benefits.

How to Grow Persian Silk Tree in New Zealand

Successfully growing a Persian silk tree starts with choosing the right spot. Select an area with plenty of sunlight and sufficient space to allow for its spreading branches. Plant in fertile, well-drained soil, and water deeply during the first year to help roots establish. Once mature, your tree will cope well with dry periods and can shake off the occasional light frost, though it prefers frost-free locations.

Pruning is generally only needed to remove dead or crossing branches and to sculpt the canopy. In spring, a layer of mulch around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping your tree looking and performing its best.

Pairings and Companion Trees

Enhance your landscape design by pairing the Persian silk tree with other ornamental trees that offer seasonal interest or contrasting form. Consider the exquisite Parrotia persica for stunning autumn foliage or the distinctive Parrotia persica pendula (Weeping Persian Ironwood) for graceful, weeping structure.

If you enjoy intriguing flowers, Albizia 'Red Silk' delivers a bolder take on the classic silk tree with striking crimson blooms. For a productive addition, the Morus nigra (Persian Mulberry) offers delicious fruit and handsome leaves, while Melia azedarach (Bead Tree) provides clusters of lilac-scented flowers followed by ornamental bead-like fruit.

Is the Persian Silk Tree Right for Your Garden?

If you’re searching for a tree that brings a touch of the exotic, flowers through summer, and provides beautiful foliage all season, the Persian silk tree makes a rewarding choice for New Zealand gardens. With its graceful habit, low-maintenance needs, and ability to harmonize with a range of companion plants, this eye-catching tree offers a stunning focal point for both urban and rural properties. Explore your options and let the Persian silk tree transform your outdoor space.


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