Shame plant (Mimosa pudica)

Also known as: Action plant, Dormilones, Zombie plant

When touched, the Sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica) reacts by folding its fern-like leaves inward and drooping. This unique response serves as a defense mechanism. While its purple, fuzzy flowers add decorative charm, it's important to be aware that the plant contains alkaloids, which can be toxic to both humans and animals.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Shame plant

Lifespan

Annual, Perennial, Biennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1 m

Spread

50 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm

Flower Color

Pink Purple

Images of Shame plant

Quickly Identify Shame plant

Mimosa pudica can be identified by its fern-like leaves that close upon being touched, its small pink or purple ball-shaped flowers, and its creeping growth habit.

Scientific Classification of Shame plant

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Legumes, milkworts and allies

Family

Legume

Genus

Sensitive plants

Species

Shame plant

Planting and Growing of Shame plant

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Terracotta, Plastic

How to Water Shame plant?

Mimosa pudica requires enough water to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water it thoroughly until you see excess water draining out of the pot's bottom, ensuring that the entire root system is moistened evenly.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Shame plant? ›

What should I do if my Shame plant is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Shame plant? ›

How to save an overwatered Shame plant? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Shame plant?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Mimosa pudica flourishes in partial sunlight, adapting well to both filtered and dappled light settings. Ideal light conditions enhance its unique leaf movements and growth vigor.

How much light does Mimosa pudica prefer? ›

How can I achieve ideal lighting for Mimosa pudica? ›

What are the benefits of ideal lighting conditions? ›

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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Shame plant?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

The ideal temperature range for Mimosa pudica is between 70°F and 85°F. This range ensures optimal physiological processes, such as photosynthesis and respiration, essential for healthy growth and development.

What Soil is Best for Shame plant?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6 ~ 7.5

Mimosa pudica thrives in well-draining soils which prevent waterlogging and provide essential oxygen to the roots. Such conditions mimic its natural habitat, ensuring robust growth and vibrant foliage. Loamy soils provide Mimosa pudica with a rich supply of nutrients, crucial for its rapid growth and the development of its sensitive, touch-reactive leaves. Balanced nutrients are vital for photosynthesis and plant vigor. While requiring good drainage, Mimosa pudica also benefits from soils that retain moderate moisture. This dual characteristic helps maintain consistent hydration, vital for its tropical nature and responsive leaf movements. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Shame plant?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Mimosa pudica, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply about 1-2 teaspoons per application, ensuring that the roots are not over-saturated to avoid root burn, which this sensitive plant is prone to. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Shame plant?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin pruning your Mimosa pudica by identifying dead or yellowing leaves and wilting stems, as these will sap the plant's energy if left unchecked. Use a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to make clean cuts, preventing bacterial infection. Focus on trimming back to a healthy node or leaf to stimulate new growth. Be strategic, ensuring not to remove more than a third of the plant at once to avoid stressing it. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Shame plant plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Late spring,Early summer

Begin by soaking Mimosa pudica seeds in warm water for 24 hours to enhance germination. This step helps to soften the hard seed coat, increasing the likelihood of successful sprouting. Use fresh seeds, as older ones decrease in viability over time.

Sow the pre-soaked seeds in a seed tray filled with a well-draining potting mix. Ensure the seeds are covered lightly with soil. Place the tray in a warm location with indirect sunlight to promote germination, which usually occurs within 2-4 weeks.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut 4-6 inch sections just below a node. Remove the lower leaves to leave only a few at the top. This helps the cutting focus energy on root development instead of sustaining leaves.

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How to Repot Shame plant plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting your Mimosa pudica is essential when you notice root-bound signs, like roots peeking through drainage holes, slow growth, or the plant becoming top-heavy. Ideally, aim to repot during its active growth phase in spring or summer for best results.

Select a pot that is just slightly larger than the current one with good drainage holes. A terracotta pot can be beneficial as it allows the soil to dry out faster, preventing root rot and ensuring healthy plant growth.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, ideally with some perlite or sand to enhance drainage. This type of soil will help prevent waterlogging, which is crucial for Mimosa pudica as overwatering is one of the main causes of plant stress and disease.

Toxicity of Shame plant

Is Shame plant toxic to humans?

The shame plant poses minimal risk to humans, primarily due to its toxin, mimosine, which is present in only small quantities in its tissues. As a result, most children typically only take a few nibbles of it. However, the shame plant has unfortunately become an invasive species in certain regions. Consequently, depending on your local climate, it may infiltrate your yard without you realizing it. If a child or an individual with cognitive impairments consumes a significant amount of it, they could experience symptoms of mimosine poisoning. These symptoms may include weakness, hair loss, goiter, and a decreased appetite. Generally, symptoms tend to resolve on their own once the individual is no longer able to consume any more of the plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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