The term acacia is not clearly defined in German. People talk about acacias, false acacias, robinias and mimosas and yet they always mean the same plant. But, is this really the truth? We bring light into the darkness.
What is the difference between mimosa and acacia?
Mimosa and acacia both belong to theMimosa family, but belong to different genera. Although they are visually very different from one another based on distinctive features, acacias are often called mimosas, which can lead to confusion.
What is the biological difference between a mimosa and an acacia?
True acacias (Acacieae) belong to theMimosa familyThey are a so-called tribe, which means that, biologically speaking, they are on the level between the subfamily and the genus. Confusion often arises when it comes to acacias and mimosas. In fact, the Acacieae species are often called “mimosas”. However, the real mimosa (Mimosa pudica) is a plant of the genusMimosa The acacia and the mimosa are therefore different plants.
What are the differences between acacia and mimosa?
Although both the acacia and the mimosa belong to the mimosa family, there isno risk of confusionWhile acacias in pots can be left on the terrace or balcony over the summer, are suitable Mimosa only asHouseplantsAcacias, on the other hand, would die at room temperature all year round. Both plants are not winter hardy. In their homeland in the tropics, acacias can grow up to15 meters highand can also reach a height of up to two meters in pots. Mimosa, on the other hand, is significantly smaller and also grows rather flat. Theflowers of the mimosa are spherical and usually bloom pink. The flowers of the acacia tree hang on the trees in the form of spikes or clusters and are yellow. Mimosa plants are known for folding their leaves when touched. The only thing the two plants have in common is their pretty, feathery leaves.
Tip
More name confusions: The mock acacia
Not only are acacias often called mimosas, robinias are also known as acacias. However, the so-called false acacia or “false acacia” is not at all related to the real acacia. Although it is also a legume, it comes from a completely different climate zone. Despite the lack of relationship, the two plants look very similar. They have pinnate leaves and are both poisonous. They can be distinguished by the leaf details and the bark. Robinias also usually grow as trees, whereas acacias tend to grow as shrubs, especially in our prevailing climate.
