Skip to main content

Sensitive Plant

Mimosa pudica

Family: Fabaceae

Native Range: Tropical Central-South America

Native Habitat: Disturbed and cultivated soils

Cultural Use/Significance: Known for its ability to fold up its leaves when touched, possibly as a deterrent to herbivores. It is considered a weed throughout much of the tropical world, and is sometimes used medicinally in Southeast Asia.



Cultural Requirements

Irrigation: Keep moist. Can endure drought.

Fertilizer: Heavy feeder. Fertilize 2x a month.

Substrate: Well drained potting mix

Light: Full sun. Can tolerate shade

Other: Does best when slightly rootbound. Should be repotted when roots grow through drainage holes.



Citations:

https://www.publications.qld.gov.au/ckan-publications-attachments-prod/resources/e00bab58-109a-4f49-a833-1ddf61749a69/common-sensitive-plant.pdf?ETag=33f344046f3d658b092aab06689ae6c0

https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/2/2/2225