How the sensitive plant reacts to touch
Learn about the sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica) of Central and South America, which, when touched, quickly closes its leaves and droops, possibly to scare off browsing herbivores.
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Transcript
Native to South and Central America, the sensitive plant is a widespread weed in tropical regions and is sometimes grown as a novelty for its rapid plant movement.
When touched, the sensitive plant swiftly closes its compound leaves and droops.
It slowly returns to its normal state after some minutes.
Scientists are unsure exactly why the plant evolved this curious mechanism, but it is possible that it serves to frighten away hungry herbivores.
When touched, the sensitive plant swiftly closes its compound leaves and droops.
It slowly returns to its normal state after some minutes.
Scientists are unsure exactly why the plant evolved this curious mechanism, but it is possible that it serves to frighten away hungry herbivores.