Silk trees, also known as mimosa trees, belong to the legume family, Fabaceae. There is only one species seen commonly in our area: Albizia julibrissin. Known for its unique, pink, pom-pom like flowers, they lend a somewhat tropical appearance but are in fact quite cold hardy. Personally, I do much care for this tree. It is weedy, short lived, and though it is certainly distinctive, it is a look I don't find appealing. While they seem to grow fairly well in this area when young, they can have issues with pests and disease, and their branches break easily.
Albizia is a large genus, with over 100 species worldwide. However, most are tropical and probably not be hardy enough to grow here. Some are large impressive trees, so if they have been shown to not be too weedy, it could be worth further investigation to see if any have some cold tolerance.
Albizia is a large genus, with over 100 species worldwide. However, most are tropical and probably not be hardy enough to grow here. Some are large impressive trees, so if they have been shown to not be too weedy, it could be worth further investigation to see if any have some cold tolerance.