There are a few Mimosa trees around the backyard that have popped up over the years, but this original one is my favorite. It is growing quite healthy among a variety cluster of trees. Together they cast the most beautiful changing array of color and bloom through the seasons, not to mention a wonderful plume of shade for the dogs.

After researching this tree, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it is not just a beautiful tree but also ‘among the most valued of Chinese botanicals for relieving anxiety, stress and depression.’ Who knew? I guess I will be expanding my knowledge a bit more in the medicinal aspect and how to properly access the trees full potential. Another interesting learned fact is that the Mimosa is considered an invasive plant due to the amount of seeds it drops and the ability to grow and adapt to different types of soil and climates.

The Mimosa tree also goes by many different names, one of which I like the most, Happiness Tree. Below I have included pictures as it looks today with the closing of summer and entering into fall. There is one remaining pink “pom pom’ (that’s what I call them) at the tippy top of the tree. The rest of the tree is draped in seed pods where ever there were flower blooms.

Here are some more facts about the beautiful Mimosa Tree:

Common Names: Happiness Tree, Persian Silk Tree, Pink Mimosa, Happiness herb, Collective happiness bark, Herbal Prozac.
Botanical Name: (Albizia julibrissin)
Family: Fabaceae

Description: An ornamental deciduous tree growing up to 10m in height. Greenish grey bark, fine bi-pinnate leaves,silky pink flowers during summer. Fruit pods contain several seeds inside. Known to attract birds, bees and butterfly’s, so expect some new visitors to your garden.

Ethnobotanical History: Both the flowers and bark are among the most valued of Chinese botanicals for relieving anxiety, stress and depression. Extracts of A. julibrissin has been found to possess antidepressant effects in mice in high doses, most likely mediated through 5-HT1A receptors. In traditional Chinese medicine Albizzia jublibrissin (合歡花 Hé Huān Huā) is used as a sedative to nourish the heart and calm the spirit. The bark is thought to anchor the spirit, while the flowers are claimed to lighten it. The flowers have also been used for the treatment of insomnia, amnesia, sore throat, and contusion in Oriental traditional medicine (Kang, et al) as well as depression, melancholy and anxiety. Popular ornamental species. Seeds used to feed livestock and wildlife. Flowers are a good source of nectar for honey-bees and butterfly’s.

How amazing is nature to create such unique and all inspiring different species across this beautiful planet in everything we see. The living and breathing things we have to explore and learn about is never ending.

I hope I peaked your interest with the Happiness Tree…my “Pink Pom Pom” Tree