Neptunia pubescens 'pubescens'
 
Common Names: Sensitive Plant, Tropical Sensitive Plant, Hairy Neptunia, Sleepy Plant
 
Zones: 9–11
 
A low-growing, herbaceous perennial native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Neptunia pubescens 'pubescens' thrives in moist meadows, ditches, and disturbed sites from Florida to Central America. Known for its fern-like foliage that folds when touched and its yellow puffball flowers, it adds tactile interest and ecological value to native plantings and wetland restorations.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Prostrate to spreading; mat-forming; fast-growing
Height: Typically 6–12 in. (15–30 cm); spreads widely across moist ground
Trunk: Herbaceous stems; green to reddish; covered in fine hairs
Leaves: Bipinnately compound; sensitive to touch; fold inward when disturbed
Inflorescence: Bright yellow puffball flowers; bloom spring through fall
Fruit: Flat, segmented pods; covered in fine hairs; seed-bearing
Ecology: Native to moist prairies, ditches, and open wetlands; supports pollinators and soil stabilization
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate to high; prefers consistently moist soils
Soil: Sandy to silty; well-drained to seasonally saturated
Temperature: Tolerates 25–95°F (–4 to 35°C); thrives in 70–90°F (21–32°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high; adapted to humid subtropical zones
Propagation: By seed or cuttings; germinates readily
Tolerance: Flood-tolerant; deer-resistant; suitable for erosion control and wetland edges
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for wetland restorations, native groundcovers, rain gardens, and sensory plantings. Its responsive foliage and spreading habit make it ideal for interactive landscapes and soil stabilization. Pairs well with Rhynchospora colorata, Echinodorus cordifolius, and Panicum hemitomon in moisture-adapted, wildlife-friendly designs.