Quick Answer: Mimosa hostilis (Mimosa tenuiflora) is not listed as a controlled plant under U.S. federal law. Its root bark, seeds, flowers, leaves, and other botanical parts have legitimate applications, including natural dyeing, textile coloring, soap making, cosmetics, ornamental cultivation, and botanical research. However, certain substances naturally occurring in the plant are federally regulated, and some activities involving the plant may be restricted under federal or state law.
This guide explains the legal status of Mimosa hostilis in the United States, its common lawful applications, and what customers should know before purchasing.
What is Mimosa hostilis?
Mimosa hostilis, also known as Mimosa tenuiflora, Jurema Preta, or Tepezcohuite, is a tree or shrub native to parts of Brazil and Mexico.
The plant has a long history of botanical, cultural, and commercial applications. Its root bark is especially valued for its natural tannins and pigments, making it useful in textile dyeing, leatherwork, traditional crafts, and cosmetic manufacturing.
Different parts of the plant include:
- Root bark
- Trunk bark and wood
- Seeds
- Flowers
- Leaves
These botanical materials have different applications, from ornamental cultivation and botanical study to manufacturing and artistic projects.
Federal legal status of Mimosa hostilis
Mimosa hostilis and Mimosa tenuiflora are not specifically named in the federal schedules of controlled substances under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act.
This distinction is important because the plant itself is not expressly scheduled by its botanical name.
However, federal law regulates certain naturally occurring compounds and materials containing them. Consequently, the legal status of a particular product or preparation may depend on its composition, intended use, and other circumstances.
For customers interested in ordinary botanical applications, the important consideration is that Mimosa hostilis has established uses unrelated to controlled substances.
Are other parts of the plant legal?
The federal controlled-substance schedules do not separately name Mimosa hostilis seeds, flowers, leaves, wood, or root bark as prohibited botanical species.
These plant materials may be used in legitimate activities, subject to applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Examples include ornamental gardening, botanical education, natural dyeing, textile projects, and research.
Common lawful uses
Natural dyeing, leatherwork, and crafts
Mimosa hostilis root bark contains tannins and natural pigments that make it useful for producing colors in textile and craft applications.
It is commonly associated with shades of purple, red, and brown and is of interest to artisans working with natural dyes.
Tannin-rich botanical materials have historically been used in leather processing and coloring.
Mimosa hostilis is also of interest in traditional craftwork, natural pigment projects, and artistic applications.
Cosmetics and skincare
Mimosa tenuiflora has a history of use in skincare traditions and is of interest as a botanical ingredient in cosmetic formulations.
Manufacturers using botanical ingredients must comply with applicable product safety, labeling, and FDA requirements. Products marketed to treat or prevent diseases may be regulated differently from ordinary cosmetics.
Botanical research and education
The plant may also be studied for its taxonomy, botanical characteristics, natural pigments, tannins, and historical applications.
Seeds, flowers, leaves, and other specimens may be useful for botanical collections and educational projects.
State and local laws
Although Mimosa hostilis is not specifically listed as a controlled plant under federal law, state laws can impose additional restrictions.
Some state statutes specifically address certain botanical species, preparations, or intended uses. These restrictions do not necessarily apply in the same way to every botanical activity.
Customers should review applicable state and local laws before purchasing, cultivating, processing, or using botanical materials.
Buying Mimosa hostilis root bark in the United States
Mimosa hostilis root bark is commercially available in the United States for legitimate botanical and non-consumable applications.
However, the legality of a particular transaction depends on the product, its intended use, and applicable laws.
When choosing a U.S. supplier, consider the following:
- Clear identification of the botanical species
- Accurate product descriptions and available sizes
- Information about the country of origin
- Transparent shipping and return policies
- Accessible customer service
At MHRBUSA™, we offer Brazilian and Mexican Mimosa hostilis root bark in several forms, including whole, shredded, and powdered bark.
Our products are intended for legitimate botanical, artistic, research, and other permitted non-consumable applications.
We ship exclusively within the United States.
Can you grow Mimosa hostilis in the United States?
Mimosa hostilis is not specifically listed as a prohibited plant under the federal Controlled Substances Act.
Ornamental cultivation may be permitted, subject to applicable state and local laws and agricultural regulations.
The plant prefers warm conditions and is generally associated with tropical and subtropical growing environments. Its suitability for outdoor cultivation depends on local climate and growing conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mimosa hostilis root bark legal in the United States?
Mimosa hostilis is not specifically listed as a controlled plant under federal law. Root bark has legitimate botanical and commercial applications, but particular preparations, intended uses, and transactions may be subject to legal restrictions.
Are Mimosa hostilis seeds and flowers legal?
The federal controlled-substance schedules do not specifically name Mimosa hostilis seeds or flowers. Their possession, sale, cultivation, or transportation may nevertheless be subject to other applicable laws.
Is Mimosa tenuiflora the same plant as Mimosa hostilis?
Yes. Mimosa tenuiflora is the currently accepted botanical name, while Mimosa hostilis is a widely used synonym. Tepezcohuite and Jurema Preta are additional common names associated with the species.
What is Mimosa hostilis root bark used for?
Mimosa hostilis root bark is valued for its tannins and natural pigments and has applications in textile coloring, leatherwork, and traditional crafts, subject to applicable laws.
Can I buy Mimosa hostilis root bark online?
U.S. suppliers offer Mimosa hostilis root bark for legitimate botanical applications. Customers should ensure that their purchase and intended use comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Is there a federal quantity limit for root bark?
The federal controlled-substance schedules do not establish a specific quantity limit for Mimosa hostilis root bark by botanical name. However, quantity alone does not determine whether a particular product, preparation, or activity is lawful.
Final thoughts
Mimosa hostilis is not specifically listed as a controlled plant under U.S. federal law.
Its root bark, seeds, flowers, leaves, and other botanical materials have legitimate applications in natural dyeing, textile work, cosmetics, ornamental cultivation, research, and traditional crafts.
Nevertheless, applicable laws may regulate certain substances, preparations, and intended uses. Customers should ensure their activities comply with relevant federal, state, and local requirements.
At MHRBUSA™, our focus is providing accurately identified botanical materials for legitimate, non-consumable applications throughout the United States.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is provided for general educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and their interpretation may change. For questions concerning a particular transaction or use, consult a qualified attorney.
Last reviewed: October 2026.
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