Smithsonian

Earthly Wonders

Name: Sensitive plant (Mimosa pudica)
Habitat: Brazil
Strange Factor: Growing up to 18 inches, the plant is known for its movements. When the leaves are touched, they will droop downwards temporarily. The same thing occurs when the plant is shaken or deprived of water. Reacting to the absence of light, the leaflets fold together at night and droop downward until sunrise.

Kevin Schafer/Corbis

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• 6
• 7
• 8
• 9