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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Sensitive plant
(Mimosa sensitive)
Also Known As
Sensitive plant, Mimosa pudica, Touch-me-not, Shy plant
About This Plant
Mimosa pudica, commonly known as the sensitive plant, is a creeping annual or perennial herb of the pea family Fabaceae. It is native to South America and Central America, but is now widely cultivated elsewhere for its curiosity value, both as an indoor plant in temperate areas, and outdoors in the tropics. The plant's leaves fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, defending themselves from harm, and re-open a few minutes later.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Light Requirements
Mimosa sensitive plant requires bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
Humidity Needs
Mimosa sensitive plant prefers high humidity levels, around 60-70%. Mist the plant regularly or place a tray of water nearby to increase humidity.
Fertilizing Schedule
Feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Pruning Guidelines
Prune the plant regularly to encourage bushier growth and to prevent it from becoming too leggy. Pinch off the tips of the stems to promote branching.
Common Pests and Diseases
Mimosa sensitive plant is susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. Keep an eye out for these pests and treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Indoor Size Range
6-12 inches (15-30 cm)
Watering Schedule
The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering it again.
Temperature Range
The plant prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C). It cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Growing Season
Mimosa sensitive plant can be grown year-round indoors. Outdoors, it grows best in warm, tropical climates.
Growing Difficulty Level
Mimosa sensitive plant is relatively easy to grow as an indoor plant. It requires some attention to watering and humidity levels, but is generally low-maintenance.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Mimosa sensitive plant is not winter hardy and can only be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Did You Know?
Mimosa sensitive plant is also known as the 'shameplant' because of its tendency to fold its leaves inward and droop when touched, as if it is ashamed.
