Albizia Lebbeck (Lebbek Tree/Flea Tree/Frywood/Koko/Woman’s Tongue)

Albizia Lebbeck, often called the East Indian Walnut, is a versatile and resilient tree that brings both beauty and function to any landscape. Known by several names—Woman’s Tongue, Flea Tree, and Kokko—this hardy species has earned a place in gardens and public spaces across the tropics, including the UAE, where it thrives under warm, sunny conditions.

A Tree with Many Benefits

Native to Asia, Albizia Lebbeck is a perennial, deciduous tree that has adapted well to a wide range of climates and soil types. In the UAE, it’s valued for its dense shade, fast growth, and low maintenance needs—making it an excellent choice for parks, large gardens, and roadside planting. Its broad, umbrella-shaped canopy provides a welcome respite from the sun, making outdoor areas more comfortable year-round.

Ideal for the UAE Climate

Albizia Lebbeck is perfectly suited to the UAE’s environment. It tolerates heat, wind, and varying soil conditions, including sandy and alkaline soils common in the region. Once established, it requires minimal watering, making it an eco-friendly option for sustainable landscaping.

A Natural Bee Attractant

Beyond its visual appeal, this tree is also a magnet for pollinators. Its fragrant, cream-colored flowers produce plenty of nectar and pollen, attracting bees and helping boost honey production in nearby colonies. For anyone interested in supporting local biodiversity or beekeeping, Albizia Lebbeck is a valuable addition to the garden.

Key Features of Albizia Lebbeck

• Common Names: Woman’s Tongue, East Indian Walnut, Kokko, Flea Tree

• Type: Perennial, deciduous tree

• Origin: Native to Asia, widely grown in tropical regions

• Height: Medium to large tree

• Flowers: Creamy-white, fragrant, and bee-attracting

• Soil: Adaptable to various types, including sandy and alkaline

• Water Needs: Low once established

• Uses: Shade tree, erosion control, forage crop, hardwood source, and bee attractant

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, multi-purpose tree for your landscape in the UAE, Albizia Lebbeck is a strong choice. Its combination of shade, beauty, and environmental benefits makes it ideal for both private gardens and larger community spaces. Plus, its ability to attract bees supports local ecosystems and enhances the health of surrounding plants.

Faqs

1. What is Albizia lebbeck?
Albizia lebbeck is a fast-growing deciduous tree known for its wide canopy, fragrant cream-colored flowers, and use as a shade or ornamental tree. It’s common in tropical and subtropical regions.

2. How tall does Albizia lebbeck grow?
It can reach up to 15–20 meters in height with a broad, spreading crown, making it ideal for roadside planting and large gardens.

3. What are the benefits of planting Albizia lebbeck?
The tree provides shade, improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation, and offers ornamental value. It’s also used for timber, fodder, and traditional medicine.

4. How much water does Albizia lebbeck need?
It’s fairly drought-tolerant once established but grows best with regular watering during dry spells, especially in its early years.

5. Can Albizia lebbeck be grown in urban areas?
Yes. Its tolerance for pollution and heat makes it suitable for urban landscaping, though it needs space for its roots and canopy.

6. Does Albizia lebbeck have medicinal uses?
Yes. In traditional medicine, parts of the tree are used for treating respiratory issues, skin problems, and inflammation, though professional medical advice is always recommended.