Aug 2nd, 2022

Hey Plant Friends!

This week we talking about Mimosa pudica also known as sensitive plant. This plant is native to the Caribbean and South and Central America. Interesting to note, Sensitive plant belongs to the pea/legume family Fabaceae. Sensitive plants have compound leaves with small green leaflets adorned with tiny hairs and when touched or brushed, they close up. This quick response to touch is due to rapid water release from specialized cells located at the bases of leaflet and leaf stalks. Leaves reopen in several minutes. This adaptation is a defense against browsing herbivores who may be startled by the movement. In addition to its response to physical stimuli, the leaves also droop in response to darkness and reopen with daylight, a phenomenon known as nyctinastic movement. In warmer climates Mimosa pudica is a perennial plant and is known as invasive species in some states. You can grow this plant indoors with proper care and with time they will reward you with a cute, purple flower.

Let’s talk about care. When it comes to light, your sensitive plant will love bright light. They will thrive in 6-7 hours of direct sunlight indoors which is sometime difficult in MN. Place it in your sunniest window right next to your cactus friends. Grow sensitive plants in a well-drained pottting soil. Espoma’s Organic Potting Mix is a great option. Check weekly for watering as the sensitive plant does not like to dry out. Water once the first inch of soil is dry, cut back a bit in the winter. A few common pests to look out for on Mimosa pudica are mealy bugs, spider mites, and aphids. Keep a bottle of Bonide’s Insecticidal Soapon hand to treat as needed.

This is a great plant to enjoy with kids or in the classroom. Mimosa pudica is available at Tonkadale in 4” and 6” pots. If you have additional questions feel free to reach out to us by phone, Instagram, or email us at hello@tonkadale.com.

Happy Planting!