Mimosa pudica in September month.jpg. by Suyash.dwivedi. CC BY-SA 4.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Sensitive Plant Plant Care
Mimosa pudica L.
Mimosa pudica (from Latin: pudica "shy, bashful or shrinking"; also called sensitive plant, sleepy plant, action plant,[3] touch-me-not, shameplant[2]) is a creeping annual or perennial flowering plant of the pea/legume family Fabaceae. It is often grown for its curiosity value: the compound leaves fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, defending themselves from harm, and re-open a few minutes later.[4] In the UK it has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[3][5]
Every 4–7 days
Full sun to partial shade
65–85°F
40–60%
What Is the Sensitive Plant?
Sensitive Plant (Mimosa pudica) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Mimosa genus. Sensitive Plant is also known as Species Plantarum, Mimosa pudica.
Sensitive Plant displays a fast-growing spreading shrub growth habit, reaching up to 6 inches tall with a spread of approximately 8 inches. Sensitive Plant produces puffball-like clusters of pink, white, or purple flowers.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Sensitive Plant?
Mimosa pudica requires watering every 4–7 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 4–7 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Sensitive Plant Need?
Sensitive Plant thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Sensitive Plant in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Sensitive Plant Prefer?
Mimosa pudica grows best at temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. Sensitive Plant prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
65–85°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Sensitive Plant?
Well-draining sandy loam with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Sensitive Plant to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Sensitive Plant?
Repot every 1-2 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Sensitive Plant?
Sensitive Plant can be propagated through seeds, root cuttings.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Sensitive Plant Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Sensitive Plant?
Sensitive Plant is susceptible to spider mites, caterpillars, leafhoppers. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Sensitive Plant Need?
Sensitive Plant grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10b – 12b. In cooler regions, grow Sensitive Plant as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 10b – 12b
Keep exploring plants
Sensitive Plant is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Mimosa genus — compare its care with other Mimosa species on PlantoScan.
Sensitive Plant tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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