Touch me not, Mimosa Pudica

When touched, the leaves of the Mimosa pudica fold up immediately, making the plant look like dried, unappealing foliage, which helps deter predators. After about half an hour, the plant restores its cell pressure and returns to normal.

Mimosa pudica, whose Latin name means “shy” or “bashful,” is commonly known as the sensitive plant, sleepy plant, action plant, touch-me-not, and shameplant. This creeping annual or perennial plant belongs to the pea/legume family Fabaceae and is often grown for its intriguing response to touch: its compound leaves fold inward and droop when touched or shaken, then re-open a few minutes later.

To care for Mimosa pudica:
– Use well-draining loamy soil.
– Place in bright light, ideally near windows.
– Maintain temperatures below 30°C (86°F).
– Ensure high humidity by regularly spraying water on the leaves.
– Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
– Apply a diluted high-potassium liquid fertilizer every two weeks.