Albizia ‘Summer Chocolate’

Albizia ‘Summer Chocolate’ is a distinctive Japanese selection of Albizia julibrissin, valued for its unusually dark foliage.

New leaves emerge green before developing bronze and reddish tones and finally becoming deep burgundy to chocolate-purple. The finely divided leaflets give the tree a very light, almost fern-like texture despite the dark colour. Strong sunlight generally produces the deepest foliage colour.

During summer, ‘Summer Chocolate’ produces silky flower heads with long pink and white stamens. The tree initially develops an upright, vase-shaped framework before forming a broader domed crown with age. Growth can be rapid in warm climates, although mature size is generally more restrained in cooler parts of Europe.

For the best results, plant it in full sun in a warm, sheltered position with well-drained soil. Established trees tolerate summer heat and periods of dryness, but young plants and poorly ripened shoots can be damaged by severe winter cold. Shelter from cold winds is especially useful in northern European gardens.