The mimosa is a very ornamental evergreen shrub or small tree that we appreciate for its winter flowering, in yellow and fragrant glomeruli, like acacia dealbata, commonly called winter mimosa.

In Latin, the mimosa is called acacia. The plant belongs to the fabaceae family. There are more than 1,200 species of mimosa, most of them native to Australia, but also from tropical and subtropical regions of Africa. The acacia was introduced in 1850 in many mild climate areas where some became naturalized.

They are plants of the Mediterranean climate, semi-rustic, and able to support frosts as low as -8 ° / -10 ° C. Outside the Atlantic coast, we strongly advise you to cultivate them in a large pot.

There are various species and attractive varieties of mimosas. Among them, there is acacia baileyana, pravissima, or even melanoxylon. The world of beautiful mimosas needs to be explored.

Today, in this article, we are going to shed light on the following points:

  • Description
  • Where to plant mimosas?
  • When and how to plant?
  • Care and maintenance
  • Symbolism

Description

The mimosa is part of the fabaceae family and grows on a flowering tree species, the acacia dealbata. There are more than 1,200 species found in various colors and shapes around the world. Mimosa is also called “winter mimosa.”

The mimosa overgrows in many cases, and it can reach 10 meters in height and live for more than 50 years. The flowering starts in January and continues until March. It is a hardy tree that can survive low temperatures ranging from -7 degrees Celsius to -10 degrees Celsius. However, it requires a lot of sunshine. The flower is very prevalent in the regions of southern France where the number of days of sunshine, even in winter, is very high.

The African continent also has acacias typical of the savannah, which are very thorny, with less spectacular flowering, but which constitute an essential source of food for the fauna.

Where to Plant Mimosas?

The mimosa can be planted indoors or outside your home in spring or fall, depending on your choice. The flower likes sunny places and should be sheltered from the wind.

The optimum temperature for the mimosa flower is generally 23 to 25 ° C. Also, it appreciates drained and stony soils.

However, the plant does not like clay, nor does it appreciate heavy or limestone soils. It is also very susceptible to polluted air. If you smoke in your home, it is better that you remove it from there and place it in a smoke free room or outdoors, depending on the weather.

Also, be aware that the plant is sensitive to cold, but don’t worry, most mimosa species can withstand low temperatures down to -5 °, provided they are short-lived.

If you live in a region with harsh winters, plant your mimosa in a pot so that you can easily take it in when it is cold.

When and How to Plant?

You should know that the mimosa grows quickly. Thus, you must prune it after flowering, giving it the shape you want.

Do not forget to remove anything that could weaken the tree: suckers growing on the ground, damaged branches, or blackened areas caused by frost. Also, the potted mimosa needs regular watering because it dries quickly, especially in summer.

Be sure to water it in moderation to prevent the roots from rotting due to excess moisture as this can kill the tree.

However, if you live in the south or on the Atlantic coast, you can plant the mimosa in the ground. It can develop on its own.

Finally, if you like to brighten up your interior with mimosa flowers, know that to keep them in a vase, you have to pick the branches as soon as the first flowers blossom.

Care and maintenance

You should water regularly during the first two years. Maintain cool soil, especially during flowering. Add a flowering plant fertilizer from March to September in potted plants.

The mimosa is very suitable for growing in pots as long as it is placed in the right spot. So, you have to choose a fairly large pot that does not have a water reserve.

Mimosas can be pruned after flowering to keep them more dense and rounded. This also minimizes wind pressure and multiplies the flowering branches.

For potted plants, winterize your mimosa in a bright and cool room kept frost-free or protect the branches with a doubled winter veil.

Watch out for hard tap water, which can damage your mimosa and cause discoloration. When growing potted mimosa, you can’t let it grow the same way as it does in the ground. Mimosas are not very prone to diseases and pests.

Symbolism

In the language of flowers, the mimosa flower is rich in symbolism and meanings. Indeed, the mimosa has been an emblem of femininity and freedom since 1946 for Women’s Rights Day, which takes place on the 8th of March.

This emblematic tradition comes from Italy. Italian women chose yellow as the official color for the mimosa. At that time, it was accessible to everyone and could be easily worn on a jacket.

To offer a bouquet of mimosa is to deliver a message of friendship and love. The mimosa is bright and refers to the sunlight and summer. It symbolizes respect, elegance, dignity, abundance, and kindness.

You should offer this gorgeous flower on the occasion of Mother‘s Day or Grandmother’s Day, to a dear friend, or to your beloved ones.  The mimosa stands for the return of sunny days and provides spiritual and emotional security.

The mimosa could be well described as a ray of sunshine in the middle of winter! It perfumes our interiors delicately and brightens our gardens beautifully with its bright yellow color.  In a vase, in a pot or in the ground, it can perfectly illuminate your balcony. Moreover, it acts as a natural antidepressant. So do not hesitate to plant it at home or simply buy it from a florist. You do not need to live in the South to have your own acacia mimosa, instead, grow it in your veranda or at the entrance of your house to shine up your winters!