Mimosa strigillosa Torr. & A. Gray

Powder Puff Mimosa

Herb

Perennial

Vascular

Powder Puff Mimosa is a native herbaceous perennial in the Bean family (Fabaceae). It can be found in the southern half of Alabama. It grows in lawns, on roadsides, and in dirt parking lots. Powder Puff Mimosa has stems that are up to three feet in length, sprawling on the ground and often mat forming. Between one and six stems are produced from a central crown. The stems are red or green in color, mostly un-armed, and pubescent to nearly glabrous. Bi-pinnatley compound leaves are arranged alternately on the stems. The leaves have 4-5 pairs of pinnae with 6-15 pairs of leaflets. Flowers are pink in color and are produced in heads or “puff balls” which resembles those of Mimosa (Albizia julibrissin Durazz.). The yellow pollen at the tips of the stamens can be seen in recently opened flowers. The fruit is a pubescent legume with 2-3 seed inside. Powder Puff Mimosa is interesting because its leaves are able to rapidly respond to stimuli. The slightest touch will cause the leaflets to fold and “droop”, giving the plant a wilted appearance. This movement of the leaf is cause by the rapid movement of water in the cells of the leaf. Powder Puff Mimosa may “wilt” when touched to make itself less attractive to herbivores. After a period of time if the plant is not disturbed the leaves will open again. Powder Puff Mimosa's tropical looking blossoms and its sensitivity to touch make it an interesting addition to the garden. It prefers dry sites with abundant sunlight. Plants have a deep tap root which makes them able to withstand drought. It is available from some native plant nurseries, and can be used as an alternative to a traditional lawn.—A. Diamond

**

Native

**