Sensitive Plant
Mimosa pudica
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Description
Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the Sensitive Plant, is a perennial herb native to South and Central America. It is renowned for its rapid leaf movement, folding inward when touched, which serves as a defense mechanism against herbivory. In agroecology, it plays a significant role as a nitrogen-fixing plant, enhancing soil fertility and structure. It is often integrated into regenerative agriculture systems as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and improve soil health. The plant's attractive pink flowers are beneficial for attracting pollinators and other beneficial insects. In a food forest, it functions as a ground cover layer, contributing to biodiversity and soil health. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Growing Details
Mimosa pudica thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help repel nematodes, while basil can deter aphids. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves for medicinal use when they are mature, and store them in a cool, dry place. The plant is s
Tags
Nitrogen Fixing
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Invasive
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Mimosa pudica</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to South and Central America
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of Jun for 60 days
Harvest:
beginning
of August for 30 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
beginning
of March
Transplant:
beginning
of May
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(1/5)
edible uses: The plant is not commonly consumed due to its low nutritional value and potential toxicity. However, in some traditional practices, small quantities of leaves are used in herbal preparations.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Mimosa pudica has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. The leaves and roots are often used in poultices for skin ailments and as a decoction for digestive issues. Caution is advised due to potential toxicity.
health concerns: Consumption in large quantities may cause adverse effects due to the presence of mimosine, a toxic compound.
other uses: The plant can be used as a green manure and for erosion control, contributing to soil stabilization and fertility.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Mimosa pudica
common names: Sensitive Plant ; Touch-Me-Not ; Humble Plant
family: Fabaceae
sub family: Mimosoideae
tribe: Mimoseae
sub tribe:
genus: Mimosa
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.2 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Evergreen
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Medium
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 1 years
life span: 5 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.6 m
max width: 0.3 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Mimosa pudica thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Before planting, prepare the soil by incorporating organic matter such as compost to enhance fertility. Mulching around the plant helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants like marigolds can help repel nematodes, while basil can deter aphids. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Harvest leaves for medicinal use when they are mature, and store them in a cool, dry place. The plant is s
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include aphids and spider mites. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Neem oil can be used as an organic spray to manage spider mites. Planting garlic or chives nearby can also help deter these pests.
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