Overview

Albizia lebbeck is a bushy trees in the genus Albizia, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Albizia lebbeck grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, coastal and mediterranean climate plants.

About

Albizia lebbeck, commonly known as East Indian walnut or kokko, is a bushy deciduous tree within the Albizia genus, which comprises deciduous trees, shrubs, and climbers with bipinnate foliage and distinctive flower clusters featuring prominent stamens. This cultivar thrives in full sun with a south- or west-facing, sheltered aspect, favouring fertile, well-drained soils such as loam, sand, or chalk with a range of pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for city and courtyard gardens as well as coastal or Mediterranean climates, offering interest in both spring and summer. Propagation can be achieved by semi-ripe cuttings or seed.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Albizia

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam, Sand, Chalk
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Albizia lebbeck size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Albizia lebbeck

Propagation
Semi-ripe cuttings, Seed
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Verticillium wilt, Honey fungus

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Albizia lebbeck?

Albizia lebbeck prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Albizia lebbeck need?

Albizia lebbeck is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including loam, sand and chalk. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Albizia lebbeck hardy in the UK?

Albizia lebbeck has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Albizia lebbeck?

Semi-ripe cuttings, Seed.