What is the Difference Between Mimosa Hostilis and Mimosa Pudica?

Mimosa Hostilis and Mimosa Pudica are two different species of plants belonging to the same family, Fabaceae. Here are the key differences between the two:

1. Sensitivity to touch: Mimosa Pudica is known as the "sensitive plant" due to its nyctinastic movement upon touch, meaning its leaves close or retract when touched. In contrast, Mimosa Hostilis does not show this sensitivity to touch.
2. Flowers: Mimosa Hostilis produces white fragrant flowers, while Mimosa Pudica produces purple flowers.
3. Size: Mimosa Pudica is commonly grown as a novelty plant in greenhouses due to its rapid leaf movements in response to touch. On the other hand, Mimosa Hostilis is a fern-like tree with branches.

Despite these differences, both plants have some similarities, such as belonging to the Fabaceae family and being flowering plants (angiosperms) that are seed plants.

Comparative Table: Mimosa Hostilis vs Mimosa Pudica

Here is a table comparing the differences between Mimosa hostilis and Mimosa pudica:

Mimosa hostilis does not show nyctinastic movement upon touch, while Mimosa pudica does. Mimosa hostilis is a fern-like tree with branches, and Mimosa pudica is a shrub-like plant. Mimosa hostilis produces a white fragrant flower, whereas Mimosa pudica produces a purple flower. Additionally, the seed coat of Mimosa hostilis is smooth, whereas the seed coat of Mimosa pudica is rough with tiny hairs.