Mimosa Tricephala

Description

Mimosa Tricephala, also known as Three-headed Sensitive Plant, is a shrub native to South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The plant is characterized by its sensitive leaves that fold when touched, providing a unique and fascinating feature to its appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Mimosa Tricephala grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a spreading habit. Its leaves are bipinnate, which means they are divided into smaller leaflets that are further subdivided into tiny leaflets. The plant’s flowers are small, pink, and arranged in spherical clusters that bloom in the summer. When touched, the leaves of Mimosa Tricephala fold and droop, making it a unique and interactive plant.

Care Guide

Mimosa Tricephala is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in partial shade to full sun exposure and is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. It is essential to protect the plant from frost and extreme temperatures.

Water

Mimosa Tricephala prefers moderate watering, and its soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

The plant should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can result in weak and leggy growth.

Soil

Mimosa Tricephala prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.

Sunlight

The plant thrives in partial shade to full sun exposure. It should be protected from the scorching afternoon sun.

Hardiness Zones

Mimosa Tricephala is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. It is essential to protect the plant from frost and extreme temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Mimosa Tricephala is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or by using insecticidal soap. The plant can also be affected by root rot, which is caused by over-watering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.

Habitat

Mimosa Tricephala is native to South America and is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. It grows in various habitats, including open fields, forests, and savannas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Mimosa Tricephala a good indoor plant?

A: Mimosa Tricephala can be grown indoors, but it prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. It is essential to provide it with enough light and space to grow.

Q: How often should I water Mimosa Tricephala?

A: Mimosa Tricephala prefers moderate watering, and its soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: What is the blooming season for Mimosa Tricephala?

A: Mimosa Tricephala blooms in the summer, and its flowers are small, pink, and arranged in spherical clusters.

Q: How tall does Mimosa Tricephala grow?

A: Mimosa Tricephala grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide, with a spreading habit.

Related Plants

• Mimosa Pudica
• Mimosa Hostilis
• Mimosa Tenuiflora

References

• “Mimosa Tricephala.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287101. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.
• “Mimosa Tricephala.” Plant Care Today, 14 May 2020, plantcaretoday.com/mimosa-tricephala.html. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.
• “Mimosa Tricephala.” World of Flowering Plants, www.worldoffloweringplants.com/mimosa-tricephala-threeheaded-sensitive-plant/. Accessed 5 Aug. 2021.