Touch-me-not plant (Mimosa pudica)
Care, watering, light and tips for Touch-me-not plant on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Touch-me-not plant
Mimosa pudica, commonly known as 'Kruidje-roer-mij-niet' or 'Sensitive Plant', is a perennial herb famous for its leaf movements when touched or at night. Its delicate pinnate leaves quickly fold inwards, offering a fascinating spectacle, and it produces small, spherical pink or lilac flowers. It is ideal as an indoor potted plant, where its curious reaction can be observed closely.
Native range
South and Central America
Care tips
It requires bright, indirect light; intense direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Keep the substrate consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging, as it is sensitive to overwatering which can lead to root rot. Use a well-draining substrate rich in organic matter. A common mistake is insufficient ambient humidity, which can cause the leaves not to close properly or to dry out.
How to save a dying Touch-me-not plant
- Warning signs
- Leaves not closing on touch, limp, yellowing or drooping. Weak, non-turgid stems.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water thoroughly. If wet, aerate and reduce watering. Place in warm, bright spot, away from drafts.
- What kills it
- Under or overwatering. Insufficient light. Cold temperatures. Compact soil suffocating roots.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't rotted. Act fast. It's resilient but needs stable conditions.