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Mimosa
genus of plant, containing c400 species / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Mimosa is a genus of plants.[1] It has around 590 species of herbs and shrubs. It is classified in the subfamily Mimosoideae of the legume family Fabaceae. The word "mimosa" comes from the Greek word μιμος that means "mimic".[2]
Quick Facts Mimosa, Scientific classification ...
Mimosa | |
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Mimosa pudica | |
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Genus: | Mimosa |
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About 400 species. |
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The best known species of mimosa are Mimosa pudica and Mimosa tenuiflora. Mimosa pudica is found in Central and South America. When touched or heated, it folds its leaves. Mimosa tenuiflora is used by shamans (traditional magical) healer.
It is used in ayahuasca brews (a "magic" drink) because of the psychedelic drug N,N-Dimethyltryptamine DMT in its roots. In general, the production of such a chemical is a defence against herbivory.