Chamaecrista nictitans
Chamaecrista nictitans · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant chamaecrista nictitans: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Sensitive-plant, Sleepy plant
- Family
- Fabaceae (legumes)
- Type
- Annual or perennial herbaceous plant depending on climate
- Blooming
- July to October, yellow flowers in clusters
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Foliage
- Deciduous, finely compound and very sensitive to touch
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, warm climate plant
- Origin
- North and Central America
Care
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist but without waterlogging. Water as soon as the soil surface dries slightly. During warm periods, increase watering frequency. Prefer watering in the morning to prevent fungal diseases.
Light Exposure
Place the plant in full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Chamaecrista nictitans tolerates well-lit areas and appreciates direct light for at least 6 hours per day.
Soil
Use well-draining soil, slightly acidic to neutral. A mix of potting soil and sand improves drainage and promotes root development. The plant appreciates light, aerated soil without stagnant moisture accumulation.
Fertilizer
As a legume, Chamaecrista nictitans fixes atmospheric nitrogen; moderate balanced fertilizer application in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and Pinching
Pinch young plants to encourage compact branching and better structure. After flowering, you can cut back lightly to stimulate a new flush of flowers. Remove dead or diseased stems as needed.
Diseases and Pests
Watch for spider mites and aphids in hot, dry climates. Ensure good air circulation and moderate watering to limit fungal diseases. In case of mild infestation, rinse the foliage with clear water.
Did you know?
Chamaecrista nictitans is famous for its leaflet movements: they close rapidly at touch or in darkness, a phenomenon called nyctinasty. This "sleep" reaction reminds us of Mimosa pudica movements, though Chamaecrista is less spectacular, and remains a wonder of plant adaptation that has intrigued botanists for centuries.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Common broomCytisus scoparius
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- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.