Lebbek Tree, Woman's Tongue Tree
albizia lebbeck
Also known as: ["Lebbek Tree","Woman's Tongue Tree","Frisia Albizia"]
Overview
A medium-sized deciduous tree native to tropical and subtropical regions, known for its feathery foliage and fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Albizia |
| Botanical Name: | Albizia lebbeck |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a potted plant in a warm, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite, avoid heavy clay, ensure bottom drainage.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but prefers warmth.
Protect from frost, maintain consistent warmth, avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering, flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup, stop feeding in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, remove dead/diseased growth, encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil mix, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure even moisture penetration, allow excess water to drain, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid contact with stems.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Albizia lebbeck seeds or pods. The lectins and other compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Albizia lebbeck seeds and pods can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of lectins and other bioactive compounds. Symptoms are typically transient and resolve without long-term effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAlbizia lebbeck contains lectins and other compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Albizia lebbeck suitable for urban planting?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and can thrive in urban environments with adequate space.
Q: Does Albizia lebbeck have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditionally, parts of the tree have been used in folk medicine for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Q: How fast does Albizia lebbeck grow?
A: It is a moderately fast-growing tree, typically reaching maturity within 10-15 years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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