Definition

Noun: 1. A taxonomic category of spiny woody plants: "Genus Mimosa" is the scientific name for a group of flowering plants in the pea family (Fabaceae). This genus is characterized by shrubs or trees that often have thorns or spines. The name originates from the plants' observable reactions to stimuli like light, heat, or touch, which were thought to mimic animal sensitivity.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The botanist specialized in studying plants within genus Mimosa.
  • Several species in genus Mimosa are known for their rapid leaf movements when touched.

Advanced Usage

• In botanical classification: The term is used in a strict taxonomic hierarchy. "Genus" is the rank above "species" and below "family." Therefore, "Mimosa" is the genus name, and a full species name would be binomial, e.g., .
  • The sensitive plant, Mimosa pudica, is the most famous member of genus Mimosa.

Variants and Related Words

• Mimosa (n): The common name for plants belonging to this genus, often referring specifically to the sensitive plant () or, in horticulture, sometimes to plants in the related genus .
  • The mimosa in the greenhouse folds its leaves when you touch it.
• Mimosoid (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of the Mimosoideae subfamily, which includes genus .
  • The flowers exhibit a mimosoid inflorescence.

Synonyms

• Mimosa genus: A less formal way to refer to the same taxonomic group.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The common name "mimosa" can also refer to:
  • A cocktail made with champagne and orange juice.
  • Certain Acacia species, notably Acacia dealbata (silver wattle), which is often called "mimosa" in floristry and gardening. This is a different genus within the same family.

Noun

1. genus of spiny woody shrubs or trees; named for their apparent imitation of animal sensitivity to light and heat and movement