Contents
Description
Mimosa Bimucronata, also known as the “Brazilian Sensitive Plant,” is a fascinating plant species that is native to Brazil. It is a small shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has compound leaves that are bipinnate. The plant is known for its unique ability to rapidly close its leaves when touched, shaken or exposed to heat. This phenomenon is due to the presence of small leaflets called “pinnules,” which are sensitive to touch and heat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Mimosa |
Appearance
Mimosa Bimucronata is a small shrub that typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are bipinnate, with each leaf having 16-32 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are small and oval-shaped, with a length of around 4mm. The plant produces small, spherical flowers that are pink in color and measure around 5mm in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Mimosa Bimucronata, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and to consider its hardiness zones. The plant requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.0. It is best to place the plant in a sunny location with partial shade, and it is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mimosa Bimucronata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and leaf spot. Spider mites and mealybugs can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Mimosa Bimucronata is native to Brazil, where it grows in the Atlantic Forest biome. It prefers well-draining soil and a warm, humid climate.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mimosa Bimucronata a good houseplant?
A: Yes, Mimosa Bimucronata can be grown as a houseplant, provided it is given adequate sunlight and water.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Mimosa Bimucronata?
A: Fertilization should be done during the growing season, every 2-3 weeks, with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I propagate Mimosa Bimucronata from cuttings?
A: Yes, Mimosa Bimucronata can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Does Mimosa Bimucronata attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, spherical flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Mimosa Pudica
- Mimosa Nuttallii
- Mimosa Strigillosa
- Mimosa Hostilis
References
- “Mimosa bimucronata Mart. ex Benth.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:494808-1.
- “Mimosa bimucronata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 21, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280106&isprofile=0&.
- Correa, M. P., & Penna, J. C. (1998). Mimosa bimucronata Mart. ex Benth. In Dicionário das plantas úteis do Brasil: Ex-Morfoanatomia e Taxonomia, vol. 2. Ministério da Agricultura, Instituto Brasileiro de Desenvolvimento Florestal.
