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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.

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
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 habit. The foliage emerges light green in spring, darkens during summer, then turns brilliant orange, red, and yellow tones in autumn before falling.

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 3.00 m
Tolerances: Extended dry periods, Hardy, Wind
Garden uses: Parks, Specimen
Garden styles: Alpine, Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern
A stunning Albizia julibrissin 'Red Silk' tree with masses of red flowers.
Albizia 'Red Silk'

Albizia 'Red Silk' is a variety of the commonly known Silk Tree, and is grown for its delicate foliage and showy flowers. The fern-like foliage is...

From$344.95
Melia azedarach tree.
Melia azedarach (Bead Tree)

Melia azedarach (Bead Tree, White Cedar) is a graceful deciduous tree valued for its attractive fern like foliage, fragrant clusters of lilac...

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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...

From$344.95
'Bearss' Lime green fruit.
Lime Bearss

The 'Bearss' Lime, also known as Persian or Tahitian lime, is a vigorous, nearly thornless citrus tree that thrives in New Zealand’s warmer regions...

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A large Agathis australis (Kauri tree) in a native reserve.
Agathis australis (New Zealand Kauri)

Agathis australis, commonly known as the Kauri tree, is a revered New Zealand native conifer renowned for its immense size and longevity. Reaching...

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Camellia 'Pure Silk'

Camellia 'Pure Silk' is an elegant evergreen shrub known for its pristine white blooms that bring a clean and refined look to New Zealand gardens...

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

Metrosideros excelsa, commonly known as Pōhutukawa or the New Zealand Christmas Tree, is a coastal evergreen renowned for its brilliant red flowers...

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Tabebuia rosea tree with masses of pink flowers.
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Tabebuia rosea is a spectacular flowering tree admired for its masses of soft pink trumpet shaped blooms that appear before the foliage in spring...

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Myoporum laetum (Ngaio) tree with lush foliage and white flowers growing in a coastal location.
Myoporum laetum (Ngaio)

Myoporum laetum, commonly known as Ngaio, is a NZ native tree grown for its lush foliage and showy flowers. It features large, fleshy, green leaves...

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Azara microphylla

Azara microphylla (Vanilla Tree) is a graceful evergreen tree admired for its small glossy leaves and wonderfully fragrant yellow flowers. In spring...

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Schinus molle (Peruvian Peppercorn)

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Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

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PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

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Robinia 'Frisia' is a striking deciduous tree prized for its brilliant golden yellow foliage that provides vibrant colour from spring through autumn...

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Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata' (Tulip Tree)

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PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

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Nestegis montana narrow green leaves on a tree.
Nestegis montana (Narrow-Leaved Maire)

Nestegis montana is a hardy and attractive native tree of New Zealand, known for its upright growth habit and glossy green foliage. This evergreen...

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A large Tilia platyphyllos tree in a park.
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Liriodendron tulipifera, commonly known as the Tulip Tree, is a magnificent deciduous tree admired for its stately form and striking flowers. It...

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Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
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Knightia excelsa (Rewarewa) specimen tree in a park.
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Parrotia persica

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Agathis, Albizia, and Camellia, or related Categories - Lime Trees, Evergreen Shrubs, and Deciduous Trees.

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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