Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Stop! I'm sensitive.

It  is not known exactly why Mimosa Pudica evolved this trait, but many scientists think that the plant uses its ability to shrink as a defense from herbivores. Animals may be afraid of a fast moving plant and would rather eat a less active one. Another possible explanation is that the sudden movement dislodges harmful insects. Once the leaves shrink , only the thorns are exposed.

They close up when it rains, too. In a way, this GIF kind of ended too soon, because, often, when one set closes, it causes a chain reaction and all the adjacent leaves fold up too. And then the other branches will do the same. A moment later, the whole plant has closed up.
Kids love these.

Plus, their mini pom-pom flowers are pretty.

The photo below is one of the flowers in our yard. Not planted, grew wild.




6 comments:

  1. What a pretty color and and interesting story. Wish this would grow wild in my garden

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    1. The flower is tiny. I had to use my macro lens, it's that small.

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  2. How lovely. I would love one in my yard also. That is the color of my hydraga.

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    1. I never knew the name until I saw a article about the leaves. I also love the color!

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  3. That is super cool, and I've never seen one. Thanks for sharing, and what a surprise to find one randomly in your yard!

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    1. Hi Rita!

      It was a surprise and love that I got a few photos of it.

      Thanks for stopping by.

      Linda

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