Botanical Name: Mimosa pudica
Common Name: Sensitive Plant, Touch-Me-Not Plant, Shameplant, Sleeping Grass, Humble Plant
Family: Fabaceae
€1.92
Mimosa pudica is a small, short-lived perennial or annual herb famous for its remarkable leaf movement response. Native to tropical regions of the Americas but now widely naturalized in many warm climates, the plant typically grows 30 to 60 cm tall with slender, branching stems that may become slightly woody at the base. The finely divided, fern-like leaves fold inward and droop when touched, shaken, or exposed to sudden changes in light or temperature, a defense mechanism known as thigmonasty.
During the growing season, the plant produces small, spherical flower heads composed of numerous tiny pink to lilac filaments, giving them a soft, fluffy appearance. After flowering, small seed pods develop. Mimosa pudica grows best in full sun and warm conditions, preferring well-drained soils and moderate moisture. It is often cultivated as an educational or novelty plant due to its rapid leaf movement.
Sow seeds in spring to early summer when temperatures are consistently warm, ideally between 22 to 30°C. Lightly scarifying or soaking the seeds in warm water for several hours before sowing can improve germination. In tropical climates, seeds may be planted throughout the year if warmth and moisture are available.
Mimosa pudica (English)
Begin by scarifying the hard seed coat to improve water absorption. Gently nick each seed with sandpaper or soak them in hot water (80°C) for 10 to 15 seconds followed by 24 hours in room temperature water (25°C). Prepare a well-draining substrate using equal parts coconut coir and perlite or a sterile seed mix. Sow the seeds 3 to 5 mm deep in pots or trays, spacing them 2 to 3 cm apart. Lightly cover with substrate and mist to maintain consistent moisture without saturation. Avoid deep sowing. Overwatering causes rot; allow the top 1 cm of soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Place containers in a warm location (22 to 28°C) with bright, indirect light. Protect from temperatures below 15°C. Cover with a transparent lid to retain humidity, ventilating daily to prevent mold. Germination typically occurs within 14 to 25 days. Once seedlings develop 2 to 4 true leaves (3 to 5 cm tall), transplant them into individual pots with a well-draining mix (compost + sand in a 1:1 ratio). Seedlings mature quickly; provide full sun once established.
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