Here's why:
* Sensitive to touch: The leaves of Mimosa pudica fold inward and droop when touched, as a defense mechanism. This movement is caused by a rapid change in water pressure within the plant's cells.
* Sensitive to light: Mimosa pudica also exhibits a "sleep" movement, where its leaves fold up at night and open again in the morning. This is a response to changes in light levels.
While there are other plants with sensitive leaves (like some species of Oxalis), Mimosa pudica is the most well-known and easily recognizable for its dramatic touch-sensitive response.
