This tiny tree is an adorable addition to terrariums or high-humidity spaces. It's part of the Oxalis family, and like its relatives it folds its leaves down overnight or when stressed. In appearance, the Little Tree looks like a miniature palm tree, with a slim trunk and a bunch of palm-like leaves fanning out from the very top of that central stem. When it folds up overnight, the fronds move downwards and fold the leaves back, like a closed umbrella. Keep this fascinating plant happy with bright but indirect light, consistently moist soil, and stable humidity, and it will delight you with its adorable appearance and overnight movement.
Scientific Name
Biophytum sensitivum (sensitive living plant)
Synonyms: Toddavaddia sensitiva, Oxalis sensitiva
Originally classified as an Oxalis, this plant has had its current classification as Biophytum sensitivum, since 1824.
Common Name
Little Tree Plant, Sensitive Plant, Life Plant, Tropical Little Tree Plant
Origin
Native to Southeastern Asia, this plant is naturally found in India, Bangladesh, Borneo, Cambodia, Southeastern China, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and much of Indonesia.
Light
Keep in bright but indirect light. Too much will scorch its leaves, while too little can cause it to rot.
Water
Only allow the top of the soil to dry between waters; this plant is happiest when its soil is consistently moist.
Humidity
High humidity is ideal for this plant, which makes it well-suited for terrariums or for growing in bathrooms or kitchens. This will also be helpful for keeping its soil at a good moisture level. A pebble tray will help maintain humidity in drier rooms.
Soil
A moisture-retentive combination of coir, fine bark and sand will work well for this plant; a mix designed for use in terrariums is ideal, especially when grown in a terrarium.
Food
Feed every four waters in the growing season, reduce to every six in autumn and winter. A fertiliser designed for houseplants, with a water before applying, will be best for your plant. Fertilisation is important for keeping these plants at their healthiest for as long as possible.
Temperature
Ideal temperatures are between 18-32°C; make sure it does not get colder than 15°C for any length of time, especially in winter.
Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!
Sprouts Top Tips
Little Trees are classed as annuals, and only have a short lifespan - so you can probably only expect it to live in your home for about 18 months. In this time, it is quite likely to flower, though, so keep an eye out for flowers in late summer. They are quite easily pollinated, and if it does grow a seed pod, you'll be able to collect seeds for sowing the following spring.
If leaves are staying closed during the day, it's likely your plant is stressed, so make sure it's in a good light level, is getting plenty of water, and isn't too cold.
