Its eye-catching blooms, normally in the March-July
period, are an excellent nectar source for bees and
butterflies. The showy flowers are fragrant pink and
white, puffy globes with yellow anthers that appeal both
to the olfactory and visual senses. It is reportedly deer
resistant, but may be grazed by livestock.
Mature plants are difficult to transplant, but Mimosa
borealis can be rooted from cuttings taken in summer and
early fall, according to Jill Nokes in How to Grow Native
Plants of Texas and the Southwest. The seed pods turn brown
when ripe and open with a twisting motion to release
the seeds. Collect the pods before they open and avoid
collecting seeds from the ground.
With a little effort you might also find this plant in the
nursery trade.
Photo opposite by Bill Lindemann; above by Delmar Cain
Don’t confuse this native mimosa with the widespread
exotic tree also called Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin).
An excellent plant for a xeriscape garden, Fragrant
Mimosa can be planted in a garden with a desert
theme, in rocky, sunny areas or as a backdrop. It will
also tolerate partial shade. It makes a great background
shrub. Because of its thorns, it can be used to block
private areas. It is easily controlled and can be pruned to
promote new growth and flowerin