Albizia Julibrissin ‘Summer Chocolate’

Albizia julibrissin ‘Summer Chocolate’ sweetly fragrant pink blossoms accentuate bold, chocolate foliage Plant Patent. One of the most exciting new plant introductions in years, ‘Summer Chocolate’ was first discovered by Dr. Masato Yokoi in Japan in 1990 as a seedling. Its ferny compound leaves emerge bronze-green in late spring, then darken to a rich burgundy-chocolate by summer and maintain their dark color even in hot, humid climates. For colder climates such as Zone 6, it’s a dependable, hardy tree for those that want to achieve a tropical look.

This tree is one of the last to leaf out, so don’t be disappointed if you don’t see foliage right away in spring – its magnificent display is well worth the wait. Showy pink clusters of powderpuff blooms stand out amongst the rich chocolate foliage in late summer and have a pleasantly sweet melon scent. Flat seedpods adorn the tree in fall and persist into winter.This fast-growing deciduous tree has a wide, vase-shaped habit with an arching dome-shaped canopy and grows up to 8 feet in its first season. Its open, airy habit makes it highly wind-resistant and provides filtered shade.

These tough trees are drought-tolerant and adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions, including salt spray. ‘Summer Chocolate’ transplants easily, has no major pest problems, and is reputed to be deer-resistant. It will achieve the deepest, darkest color in full sun but is also tolerant of partial shade. Use this highly ornamental tree as a landscape specimen, accent, or patio planting for years of conversation-starting beauty.