Mimosa pudica in pot cover (Sensitive Plant)

Description

Mimosa pudica

Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the Sensitive Plant or Touch-Me-Not, is a fascinating tropical species renowned for its unique ability to rapidly fold its leaves when touched or disturbed. This low-growing, creeping herb typically reaches heights of 30-50 cm, featuring delicate, fern-like bipinnate leaves arranged along slender, stems.

The plant’s most striking feature is its rapid plant movement, or seismonastic response, where leaflets fold inward and stalks droop when stimulated, reopening minutes later. This mechanism serves as a defense against herbivores and conserves water. From summer to early autumn, Mimosa pudica produces small, globular, pinkish-lavender flower heads that resemble fluffy balls.

Thriving in warm, humid environments, this tropical native requires full sun to partial shade and consistently moist, well-draining soil. While often grown as a curiosity or for children’s education, Mimosa pudica is also valued in some traditional medicine systems. Its unique interactive nature makes it a captivating addition to gardens, greenhouses, or as an indoor plant in suitable climates.