OtterKnow Kids Encyclopedia

If you touch one leaf, the folding can spread to the leaves next to it, making the whole branch look like it is falling asleep! The plant sends tiny signals through its body, like how your nerves send messages to your brain. After about fifteen to thirty minutes, the plant slowly opens its leaves back up and stands tall again.

• Scientists think this folding trick helps scare away hungry caterpillars and grasshoppers.
• When the leaves fold up, the plant shows off small thorns hidden on the stems!
• The sensitive plant also grows little fluffy pink puffball flowers that look like tiny cotton candy balls, making it both fun to touch and pretty to look at.