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touch-me-not
Scientific Name: Impatiens
Family: Balsaminaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Touch-Me-Not Plants: A Sensitive Subject
The name "touch-me-not" refers to several different plants, most notably species within the genus Impatiens and the species Mimosa pudica. Both exhibit fascinating characteristics that have captured human interest for centuries.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
- Impatiens: Belongs to the family Balsaminaceae.
- Mimosa pudica: Belongs to the family Fabaceae (pea family). It has numerous common names in various languages, including sensitive plant, humble plant, shameplant, chuimui (Hindi/Urdu), and lajalu (Marathi).
Synonyms and related species mentioned include:
- Impatiens noli-tangere (Touch-me-not Balsam)
- Neofibularia nolitangere - Touch-me-not-sponge (Note: this is a sponge, not a plant)
- Impatiens capensis (Spotted Touch-me-not, Jewelweed) also known as I. biflora
- I. pallida (Touch-me-not, Snapweed, Jewelweed)
- I. balsamina (also called Balsam)
Considerations for Pets
- Mimosa pudica is described as having recurved thorns.
Considerations for Children
- Mimosa pudica is described as having recurved thorns.
- Impatiens species have pods that, when ripe, may burst open.
Distribution and Habitat
- Mimosa pudica is native to Central and South America. It has also become naturalized in tropical America and Australia.
- Spotted Touch-Me-Nots (Impatiens capensis) are native to North America.
- Impatiens noli-tangere is native to Britain.
- I. capensis, I. biflora, and I. pallida are native to extensive areas, growing as common weeds in moist environments.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Mimosa pudica is described as a creeping annual or perennial herb. Its defining feature is its compound leaves that fold inward and droop when touched or shaken.
- Impatiens species, like the spotted touch-me-not (Impatiens capensis), have flowers shaped like a funnel, often orange with red or reddish-brown spots.
- Mimosa pudica is also noted as being "heavily armed with recurved thorns".
Ecological Role
- Some Impatiens species (I. capensis, I. biflora, and I. pallida) are described as common weeds, indicating they can be invasive in certain environments.
Quirky Facts
- The leaves of Mimosa pudica move when touched due to a unique adaptation. This movement also occurs during the day and night.