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Description
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa, also known as Prairie Mimosa or Fourvalve Sensitive Briar, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the central and eastern parts of North America and can grow up to 4 feet tall. This plant is characterized by its bipinnately compound leaves, pinkish-white flowers, and four-valved seed pods that have a unique spiral shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Mimosa |
Appearance
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa has bipinnately compound leaves that are about 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The leaflets are small and have an oval shape with a pointed tip. The flowers are pinkish-white and have a diameter of about 1 inch. They are produced in clusters at the end of the branches. The seed pods are four-valved and spiral-shaped, measuring about 1 inch in length.
Care Guide
Water
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week and allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid burning the roots.
Soil
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
Sunlight
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but will not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa is commonly found in prairies, fields, and open woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa is a great plant for landscaping as it can add color and texture to any garden or landscape.
Q: Does Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa is a great plant to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I prune Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa?
A: Prune Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back any overgrown branches to maintain the plant’s shape.
Related Plants
- Mimosa Pudica
- Mimosa Striata
- Mimosa Nuttallii
- Mimosa Ophthalmocentra
References
- “Mimosa Quadrivalvis (L.) Britton, Sterns & Poggenb. Prairie Mimosa.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:129074-2. Accessed 7 Sept. 2021.
- “Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f180. Accessed 7 Sept. 2021.
- “Mimosa Quadrivalvis Var. Platycarpa.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MIQUQ. Accessed 7 Sept. 2021.
