velvetleaf

Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti). Photo: Betty Marose

Updated: February 27, 2023

Life cycle: summer annual

Growth habit: erect 2 to 5 ft. high with velvety leaf and stem surfaces; leaves simple, heart-shaped with finely toothed margins, covered in velvety soft hairs

Reproduction: seeds can germinate from several inches below soil surface;yellow, 5-petaled flowers in leaf axils, followed by button-like fruit similar to hollyhock

Conditions that favor growth: common in corn field production; gardens and roadsides

Cultural control: remove by hand in landscape settings

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