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Description
Mimosa Setosissima, also known as the Bristly Mimosa, is a shrub native to the southwest United States and northern Mexico. It grows up to 6 feet tall and wide, with a sprawling habit and spiny stems. The leaves are bipinnately compound, with numerous small leaflets that give the foliage a feathery appearance. In the summer, Mimosa Setosissima produces fluffy pink flowers that resemble pom-poms. The flowers give way to seed pods that are covered in sharp spines, making them painful to touch.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Mimosa |
Appearance
The foliage of Mimosa Setosissima is its most striking feature, with fern-like leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are a bluish-green color and are arranged alternately on the stem. The pink flowers are arranged in spherical clusters at the ends of the branches, and each flower has numerous stamens that give it a fuzzy appearance. The seed pods are long and narrow, with a pointed tip and spiny exterior.
Care Guide
Mimosa Setosissima is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Afterward, water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
- Soil: Mimosa Setosissima prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to maximize flowering and growth.
- Hardiness Zones: Mimosa Setosissima is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mimosa Setosissima is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and powdery mildew in humid conditions. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, and treat with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Mimosa Setosissima is native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in open, sunny areas with well-drained soil, such as rocky slopes, desert washes, and mesas. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mimosa Setosissima a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Mimosa Setosissima is an excellent choice for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in hot, sunny conditions.
Q: Can Mimosa Setosissima be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mimosa Setosissima can be grown in containers as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Does Mimosa Setosissima attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the pink flowers of Mimosa Setosissima are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Mimosa Setosissima be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Mimosa Setosissima can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring or summer and rooting them in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
- Mimosa Pudica
- Mimosa Strigillosa
- Mimosa Nuttallii
- Mimosa Borealis
References
- “Mimosa Setosissima.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MISE2
- “Mimosa Setosissima.” Arizona State University. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://calscape.org/Mimosa-setosissima-(Bristly-Mimosa)
- “Mimosa Setosissima.” Desert Museum. Accessed 22 June 2021. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Mimosa%20setosissima.php
