Mimosa pudica - mimosa

Mimosa Pudica, generally known as mimosa, belongs to the family of the legumes (Fabaceae). This low -growing, herbaceous plant is known for its immediate reaction to touch, in which your leaves close within seconds. Mimosa Pudica has made this strange capacity a popular plant in gardens and as a study object in plant physiology.

Morphology and distribution

Mimosa Pudica is a multi -year plant with delicate, feathered leaves and small, pink to purple flowers. It originally comes from South America, but has spread to different climate zones worldwide due to its adaptability. The plant often grows as a ground cover or in hanging baskets and usually reaches a height of 30 to 50 centimeters.

Reaction mechanism of leaf development

The most striking property of Mimosa Pudica is the quick closure of your leaves when touched. This movement, also known as Thigmonastie, is controlled by cells in the leaf bases. The cells contain special cell vacuoles that can release or absorb water. When touched, a quick loss of fluid is triggered from the cells, which leads to a sudden collapse of the leaf support tissue and thus closes the leaves. This mechanism probably serves as a protective mechanism against predators.

Ecological role and adaptability

The sensitive plant has an interesting ecological role. Due to the quick leaf lock, Mimosa Pudica can deter potential predators. This can help protect the plant from herbivores. In addition, the ability to adapt to different lighting conditions can make Mimosa Pudica a successful settler of different habitats.

Biological and medical research

Mimosa Pudica also sparked the interest of researchers in the areas of biology and medicine. The exact mechanisms of Thigmonastie serve as a model for researching fast plant movements. In addition, different medical properties are attributed to certain parts of the plant in traditional medicine. Extracts from Mimosa Pudica are used in some cultures to treat skin diseases, cough and other symptoms.

Challenges and protective measures

Although Mimosa Pudica is valued as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world, it can become an invasive weed in some regions. The ability of the plant to multiply and adapt quickly is a challenge in some ecosystems. In order to prevent uncontrolled spread, suitable protective measures and control strategies are required.