Also known as Selenium-Weed · Sensitive-Plant
Neptunia gracilis is a low-growing perennial legume native to Australia, recognized for its sensitive leaves that fold upon touch. It thrives in sunny, well-drained soils
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Can tolerate some direct sun, but may scorch leaves in intense heat.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top inch to dry between waterings. Reduce in winter.
Sandy, Loamy, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures between 18-24°C. Avoid cold drafts and temperatures below 10°C.
Light
25% intensity
Feed with diluted balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring/summer). Do not fertilize in fall/winter.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid waterlogging. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Reduce watering in winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Pinch back the tips of young stems to promote branching. Remove any dead, damaged, or leggy stems as needed.
Pruning is best done in spring before active growth begins to shape the plant and encourage fuller foliage.
Propagate from seeds sown in spring, or from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Seeds may require scarification or soaking before sowing.
Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining potting mix in a warm, humid environment. Patience is often needed for successful germination or rooting.
Repot Neptunia gracilis every 1-2 years, preferably in spring, when it becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of potting soil, perlite, and sand.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Native Sensitive Plant (Neptunia gracilis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Neptunia |
| Species | Neptunia gracilis |
Similar in genus Neptunia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
