Last year, my friend gave me what looked like a twig in a pot for my birthday. Since she is a good friend, I knew it wasn’t a joke – but she wouldn’t tell me what it was until it started to show signs of life. Eventually, she gave me its name – Albizia summer chocolate.
Albizia summer chocolate - daytime
Whilst being part of the mimosa family, it appears to be very happy in its pot. It is in a south-facing location which seems to suit it perfectly. The leaves are a lovely reddish colour.
Albizia summer chocolate - in the evening
One of the more interesting things about it is the way in which its leaves fold up in the evening. I believe it flowers in the US, wonder if it will here in the UK? Watch this space for updates ……………
Gardening and dogs 
May 10, 2011 at 17:14
HI! We’re thinking of getting a Mimosa tree for the front yard, and when i bing’ed Mimosa I found your site!
I’m wonderfing how your tree is doing~ I love the red leaves~ and really, just interested in how your luck has run with it!
Thanks!
Shannon Bartlett
North Carolina, USA
May 10, 2011 at 18:17
Hi Shannon – the tree has come through the winter beautifullyand the young leaves are growing well, though still green at this stage. My friend (who gave me the plant) said she had one flower on hers last year, so fingers crossed for flowers on mine this year 🙂