Mimosa Seed Kit

Mimosa Seed Kit – The Plant That Moves When You Touch It

The Mimosa Seed Kit from Radis et Capucine is far more than just a houseplant – it's a living natural wonder. The Mimosa pudica, also known as the Sensitive Plant or Touch-Me-Not, folds its delicate feathery leaves within seconds of being touched. A phenomenon that delights children and amazes adults – again and again.

This set from the renowned French seed company in Angers, Loire Valley, includes viable seeds and multilingual instructions. Radis et Capucine has been crafting premium organic seed kits for over 25 years – Made in France.

Why Do the Leaves Fold?

The folding is called thigmonasty – a rapid movement response to touch, vibration or heat. In nature, this serves as a defence mechanism against herbivores: the plant suddenly appears smaller and less appetising. The touch triggers an electrical signal that forces water out of specialised hinge cells (pulvini), causing the leaves to collapse. After 15–30 minutes of rest, they reopen fully.

Step-by-Step Growing Guide

1. Seed Preparation

• Soak seeds for 24 hours in warm water (around 30°C)
• Optional: lightly scratch the hard seed coat with sandpaper to speed up water absorption

2. Sowing

• Plant 2–3 seeds per pot about 3–5 mm deep in moist seed-starting mix
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Place in a warm spot (20–25°C), cover with cling film

3. Germination

• Seeds germinate within 7–21 days – most within 1–2 weeks
• Remove cover once first leaves appear
• Even young seedlings respond to touch!

4. Location and Care

• Light: Bright, indirect sunlight – south or west-facing window
• Temperature: 18–25°C, never below 15°C
• Watering: Water when the top layer of soil feels dry. No standing water!
• Humidity: Enjoys moisture – mist occasionally

Perfect for Kids

The Mimosa is a fantastic educational plant for children. It combines gardening with science and delivers instant wonder. Children love touching the leaves and watching them react – an interactive nature experience no screen can replace.

Tips and Tricks

• Don't touch the plant too frequently – it needs 15–30 minute recovery breaks
• With enough light, it produces pretty pink powder-puff flowers
• Grows to 30–50 cm – pinch tips to encourage bushy growth
• The leaves also fold every evening on their own (nyctinasty) and reopen at dawn

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it poisonous?
Mimosa pudica is mildly toxic if consumed in large quantities – it may cause stomach upset. Keep away from curious pets and toddlers who chew on plants.

How fast does it react?
Lightning fast – leaves fold within 1–2 seconds of being touched.

Does it stop reacting?
Yes. After repeated touching, the plant needs a 15–30 minute rest before responding again. It temporarily "tires out".

What's Included

• Viable Mimosa pudica seeds (Sensitive Plant)
• Instructions in four languages (DE, EN, IT, ES)
• Packaging: 13 × 13 cm
• Brand: Radis et Capucine, Angers, France