Status:
valid
Authors:
A.Gray
Source:
ildis
Year:
1850
Citation Micro:
Boston J. Nat. Hist.6: 182 (1850)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000174573
Common Names
- Mimosa Malacophylla
- Woolly Sensitive Plant
- Woolly Mimosa
Synonyms
- Mimosa wootonii Standl. [unknown]
- Mimosa malacophylla glabrata Benth. [unknown]
Description
Mimosa malacophylla (also called Soft-Leaved Sensitive Plant, among many other common names) is a small, perennial shrub native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. It has small, fern-like leaves that fold inward when touched. It grows in open, sunny areas and is often found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides and pastures.
Uses & Benefits
Mimosa malacophylla is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and for landscaping. It is also used medicinally to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomachache.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Mimosa malacophylla are small, yellow, and fragrant. The seeds are small, black, and round. The seedlings are small, green, and have a single pair of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Mimosa malacophylla is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub that can reach up to 10 feet in height. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is best done by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the spring and cuttings should be taken in the summer.
Where to Find Mimosa malacophylla
Mimosa malacophylla is native to Central and South America, and can be found in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.
Mimosa malacophylla FAQ
What is the scientific name of Mimosa malacophylla?
Mimosa malacophylla
What is the common name of Mimosa malacophylla?
Soft-leaved Sensitive Plant
What is the habitat of Mimosa malacophylla?
It is found in dry woods, thickets, and along roadsides
Species in the Mimosa genus
Mimosa bimucronata,
Mimosa busseana,
Mimosa elliptica,
Mimosa invisa,
Mimosa latispinosa,
Mimosa mossambicensis,
Mimosa pigra,
Mimosa polydactyla,
Mimosa pudica,
Mimosa rubicaulis,
Mimosa scabrella,
Mimosa suffruticosa,
Mimosa antioquensis,
Mimosa lepidophora,
Mimosa parvifoliolata,
Mimosa acapulcensis,
Mimosa aculeaticarpa,
Mimosa adenocarpa,
Mimosa affinis,
Mimosa albolanata,
Mimosa alleniana,
Mimosa amambayensis,
Mimosa apodocarpa,
Mimosa argillotropha,
Mimosa aspera,
Mimosa bahamensis,
Mimosa barrancana,
Mimosa barretoi,
Mimosa benthamii,
Mimosa berroi,
Mimosa brachystachya,
Mimosa brevipetiolata,
Mimosa caerulea,
Mimosa cainguensis,
Mimosa calcicola,
Mimosa calliandroides,
Mimosa callithrix,
Mimosa campicola,
Mimosa canahuensis,
Mimosa candelabrum,
Mimosa coelocarpa,
Mimosa colombiana,
Mimosa congestifolia,
Mimosa corynadenia,
Mimosa cubatanensis,
Mimosa cuzcoana,
Mimosa cyclophylla,
Mimosa deamii,
Mimosa dryandroides,
Mimosa dutrae,
Species in the Fabaceae family