Watch a video: The shameplant that 'feels shy' on human touch

26 Jun 2020

Watch a video: The shameplant that ‘feels shy’ on human touch

Watch a video: The shameplant that ‘feels shy’ on human touchHave you ever read about the shameplant? It does exactly what its name suggests. When this plant is touched by another organism, its leaves fold in upon themselves and its stems droop as if it is feeling shy.

The plant is called Mimosa pudica (also commonly known as the sensitive plant).

It is related to the pea family and is native to South and Central America.

The plant is a spiny shrub and grows to a height of about 30 cm (1 foot). Each leaf of the plant has multiple tiny leaves and its flowers are light pink or purple in colour.

Not only physical touch but excessive heat and rain can also make the plant droop and re-open. Its leaves usually reopen soon after it closes. It also droops in darkness and reopens at daylight.

Why does it react on touch?

Scientists believe that it is a defence against being eaten by animals, who may get shocked by the sudden change. It also makes the plant look smaller and its sharp spines more visible.

Watch a video of the plant below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLTcVNyOhUc

Recommended for Foundational Grades

Have you ever read about the shameplant? It does exactly what its name suggests. When this plant is touched by another organism, its leaves fold […]

To read more...

Share your comment! Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

To post your comment Login/Signup