Shame plant - Mimosa pudica (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Shame plant

Also known as: Action plant, Dormilones, Zombie plant

The Sensitive plant is aptly named for its distinctive response of curling up when touched, whereby its fernlike leaves fold inward. Although its purple fuzzy flowers make it a charming indoor plant, it is important to note that the plant contains alkaloids that can be harmful to both humans and animals.

Scientific classification

Species

Shame plant (Mimosa pudica)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Bloom Time

Winter, Late spring

Harvest Time

1 m

Plant Height

50 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

1 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Green

Fruit Color

Pink, Purple

Flower Color

Green, Purple

Stem Color

Non-dormant

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Shame plant

Distribution of Shame plant

Distribution Map

Shame plant is native to Central and South America but has been introduced to parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. While cultivated for its curiosity-inducing movements, shame plant is sometimes thought to be a challenge in certain areas outside its native range, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Croplands, orchards, pastures, mowed areas, roadsides, areas disturbed by construction, moist waste ground, open plantations, weedy thickets

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

The shame plant grows well as an ornamental potted plant that can decorate outdoor landscapes and courtyards. When grown in garden beds and borders, it has the tendency to spread widely and makes a great ground cover or border plant. The foliage lasts year-round, and the showy flowers appear during the summer. It grows best in sunny parts of wildflower or woodland gardens.

Symbolism

Shy, sensitive, and polite

Interesting Facts

The small shame plant opens and closes on its own. It is not proud, but has a beautiful sentiment. Pink flowers add a little girl's wit to the shame plant.

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Toxicity

Shame plant is not highly dangerous to humans due to its low mimosine content. However, it can become an invasive weed. Children and cognitively impaired people are at risk if they eat enough, leading to mimosine poisoning with symptoms like weakness, hair loss, goiter, and loss of appetite. Symptoms typically resolve once the plant's consumption stops.

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Care Guide for Shame plant

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Shame plant thrives in tropical conditions, preferring consistent moisture and high humidity. It has moderate drought tolerance but flourishes with slightly damp soil. Weekly watering supports its evergreen foliage, especially indoors, where environmental control is essential for its continual growth.

Fertilize: Shame plant requires balanced fertilizer biweekly during the growing season, favoring high nitrogen for foliage. Reduce feeding in fall/winter, and water soil first to prevent root burn. Young plants may need more frequent feeding, and using half-strength fertilizer helps avoid burn. Safety precautions are essential.

Pruning: Pruning shame plant in early to late spring promotes bushier growth and enhances air circulation. Use sharp pruners to remove dead stems and shape the plant, preventing legginess. Regular pruning maintains a compact form and encourages healthy new growth, while gentle handling is essential due to its sensitive foliage.

Propagation: Shame plant propagates in Spring by sowing seeds, featuring a moderate difficulty level. Success is shown by new sprouts. Use moist, well-draining soil and keep warm for optimal propagation.

Repotting: Plant shame plant in small or shallow pots, ideally using medium-sized pots measuring 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) in diameter for optimal growth.

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Images of Shame plant

Distribution of Shame plant

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Shame plant

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