There is indeed a plant life that seems to “ jump ” or close its leaves when touched or tickled . This enchanting plant is called Mimosa pudica , but it is also ordinarily known as the sensitive plant , modest works , or touch - me - not . Mimosa pudica is a shrubby repeated industrial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family . It is native to South and Central America but is now found in various parts of the globe .
One of the most spectacular feature of this plant is its unique response to touch . When you gently sweep or tickle the leaves of Mimosa pudica , they at once close up in and droop , give the show of the plant wince or “ jumping . ” This reaction is an adaptative chemical mechanism that help the industrial plant defend itself against potential threats such as grazing animals or unassailable winds . By close up its folio and appear wilted , the sensible plant becomes less seeable and less appetising to herbivore .
The sensitiveness of Mimosa pudica ’s leave can be assign to specialized leaf structures called pulvini , which are regain at the base of each leaflet . These pulvini hold back cells that respond to touch or vibration by rapidly losing turgor insistence , cause the leafage to collapse . This response come about within seconds and is two-sided , with the leaf reopening after a short flow .
Growing Mimosa pudica can be an enjoyable experience , whether as a houseplant or in a garden . It is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a cooking stove of conditions . Here are some key points to consider :
1 . Light : Mimosa pudica prefers bright , collateral light . It can tolerate some direct sunshine but may meet from leafage suntan if exposed to intense rays for prolonged menstruum .
2 . Temperature : This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60 - 85 ° F ( 15 - 29 ° C ) . It is not frost - tolerant and should be protected from dusty drafts .
3 . Watering : Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged . Overwatering can lead to root rot , so it ’s important to allow the topsoil to dry out more or less between waterings .
4 . Soil : Well - drain soil is all important for the sensitive flora . A mixture of potting soil , perlite , and peat moss works well . Outdoors , it can grow in a variety of grunge type as long as they are well - draining .
5 . fertiliser : fee the plant with a balanced , water - soluble fertilizer every 2 - 4 weeks during the growing season . Reduce or stop fertilization during the torpid geological period .
6 . Pruning : Regular pruning help observe the flora ’s flesh and encourages shaggy-coated growth . Pinching off the tips of the bow can promote sidelong branching .
Mimosa pudica can also be propagate easily through seeds or stem cutting . If you desire to grow it indoors , choose a plenty with good drainage and furnish a trellis or support for the plant to climb if desire .
Having a Mimosa pudica in your home or garden can be a delightful and interactive experience . Its alone sensitivity to touch adds an element of surprisal and wonderment . Children , in particular , may find joyfulness in watching the leaves fold in response to their touch , making it a great educational plant . So , consider adding this wizardly and affordable plant to your collection and enjoy its playful nature .
Caroline Bates
