Overview
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is a plant native to Central and South America. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is also known as the tangerine sensitive plant. The plant is generally known for its sensitivity as its leaves fold up when touched, and it has various medicinal uses.
General Appearance
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is a small shrub that grows up to 2 meters high. The leaves are bipinnate and are made up of 2-4 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are round in shape and have a dark green hue. Flowers are small and pink and occur in clusters, while pods are rigid and cylindrical, brownish in color, and measure up to 10 cm long and 2 cm wide.
Common names
The plant is known by several common names, such as tangerine sensitive plant, dormilona, and jazmin dormilon.
Uses
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is known for its medical properties. The plant has been used to treat insomnia, anxiety, stress, and respiratory problems in traditional medicine. Studies have shown that the plant has sedative and anticonvulsant properties and may have a potential therapeutic effect in treating epilepsy, anxiety, and other neurological disorders. Additionally, the plant is used in the production of soaps and hair care products thanks to the saponins present in the pods.
Growth Conditions for Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq.
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. It is a fast-growing, deciduous shrub that can reach up to 10 meters in height. In order to grow this plant successfully, it is important to consider the following growth conditions:
Light Requirements
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to provide this plant with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to ensure proper growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
This plant requires warm temperatures to thrive. It prefers temperatures between 18°C and 30°C. Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is not frost tolerant and should be protected from temperatures below 0°C.
Soil Requirements
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have good water retention. It is recommended to add compost or other organic matter to the soil before planting to improve its quality.
In conclusion, to ensure optimal growth and development of Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq., it is important to provide it with full sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining, slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter.
Cultivation Methods
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq., commonly known as the chicharrao tree, thrives well in a warm environment with a young and loamy soil texture. A substantial amount of rainfall is particularly suitable for its growth. The plant is propagated through seeds and cuttings.
The seeds must be soaked in sufficient water before sowing to remove any germination inhibitors. The germination rate is known to be erratic, so buying extra seeds is often advised. Cuttings require a moist and shady environment for rooting to occur.
Watering Needs
The chicharrao tree requires consistent watering; the soil must never become too dry. This is particularly important during periods of drought. The frequency with which to water the plant depends on its size, soil type, and environmental conditions. When watering, avoid standing water as it is harmful to the tree.
Fertilization
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. Therefore, a regular application of a balanced fertilizer is vital to ensure the plant receives the necessary nutrients for growth. It is recommended to apply the fertilizer at least twice a year, preferably in early spring and late summer, when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning
Pruning helps the chicharrao tree to maintain its desired shape and size and promotes healthy growth. It is best to prune the plant in early spring before new growth starts. To avoid damage to the tree and promote healthy healing, use clean and sharp tools. Remove any dead or diseased branches, damaged or crossing limbs, and any weak growth. The goal of pruning is to allow enough light and air into the canopy for healthy growth.
Propagation of Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq.
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq., commonly known as "tarumã," is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is widely distributed throughout Brazil, mainly in the Cerrado biome. Propagating Mimosa cyclocarpa can be done through several methods, including:
Seeds
The most common propagation method of Mimosa cyclocarpa is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the mature pods of the plant, which open naturally when fully ripe. After collecting the seeds, they must be washed and soaked in water for 24 hours to break the dormancy. Then, they can be sown in individual plastic bags filled with a substrate rich in organic matter and placed in a shaded area. Germination usually occurs within 15 to 30 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after six months.
Cuttings
Another propagation method of Mimosa cyclocarpa is through cuttings. Hardwood cuttings can be taken in the winter, while softwood cuttings can be taken in the summer. The cuttings should be 15 to 20 cm in length, with at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be treated with rooting hormones, then placed in a substrate rich in organic matter. They must be kept in a shaded and humid environment until roots develop, which usually takes around 30 to 40 days. The rooted cuttings can then be transplanted to their permanent location.
Layering
Mimosa cyclocarpa can also be propagated through layering. The method involves selecting a low, flexible branch and bending it towards the ground. The section of the branch that will touch the soil should be removed of leaves and scraped to promote rooting. The branch should be covered with soil and kept moist until roots develop. After some months, the rooted branch can be cut free and transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq.
Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. is a plant that is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. If not managed properly, these can affect the growth and quality of the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause dark spots on the leaves and eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the plant foliage dry. Water the plant at the base and avoid watering the leaves. Fungicide treatments can also be used to manage the disease.
Root Rot: This is a soil-borne disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Fungicide treatments can also be used to manage the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites: These are small insects that feed on the plant leaves, causing yellowing and stunting of growth. To manage this pest, it is important to keep the plant foliage clean and dry. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the infestation.
Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage the infestation. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced in the garden to control the infestation.
In conclusion, disease and pest management is crucial for the growth and survival of Mimosa cyclocarpa Jacq. By following the suggested methods of managing common diseases and pests, the plant can thrive and produce healthy foliage.
