There are a variety of mimosa species native to tropical South America. However, of the numerous species, only one can be cultivated as a houseplant here. Care is not that easy - it is not without reason that mimosas are considered divas in the plant world.
How many types of mimosa are there and which ones are suitable as houseplants?
There are about 500 known species of mimosa, mostly native to South America. The Mimosa pudica is the only species cultivated as a houseplant and is known for its delicate leaves that fold when touched.
How many types of mimosa are there?
So far it is assumed that there are around 500 different types of mimosa. However, only one species is grown indoors, namely the Mimosa pudica, which is available in different varieties.
However, it is not easy to get special types of mimosa in stores. Mimosa plants are also not offered that often. The hobby gardener usually only has to sow this houseplant himself. However, propagation via seeds is quite easy.
Mimosa is not easy to care for
It's not for nothing that sensitive and sickly people are called mimosa. The plant lives up to this cliché because it is not easy to care for.
A mimosa will only thrive if care and location are optimal. Correct watering is important. All mimosa species tolerate neither complete dryness nor too much moisture.
It is also very difficult to overwinter mimosas properly, so these houseplants are usually only grown as annuals.
Peculiarities of mimosa
A peculiarity that affects all types of mimosa has made the plant particularly interesting for hobby gardeners. Their pinnate leaves fold together when touched mechanically, for example with a finger or near a match.
This often triggers a chain reaction in which all the leaves gradually fold together. By the way, wind or raindrops do not cause it to fold. The ambient temperature must also be at least 18 degrees. After about half an hour the leaves open again.
It is not recommended to provoke the leaf reaction frequently. There are some varieties of mimosa that are very stressed by this exertion and need a lot of time to recover. Therefore, avoid touching the leaves or getting too close to them with lighters and matches.
Tip
Another name for the mimosa is “shameful meaning plant”. It belongs to the legume family. When grown indoors, the subshrub can reach a height of 50 centimeters.
