Velvetleaf
Abutilon theophrasti · Malvaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant velvetleaf: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Velvetleaf
- Family
- Malvaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herb
- Mature size
- 60 to 120 cm tall
- Flowering
- July to October, yellow flowers
- Foliage
- Deciduous, soft and velvety leaves
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, grow as annual or in temperate greenhouse
- Origin
- South and Central Asia
Care
Light and exposure
Place velvetleaf in full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is possible but will slow growth and flowering. Protect it from strong winds that can damage its tender stems.
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged during the growing season. Water regularly once the soil surface dries out. Reduce watering in autumn. Avoid standing water which promotes root rot.
Soil and substrate
Prepare rich, light, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. A mixture of horticultural compost with added compost works perfectly. Ensure good drainage with gravel or pot shards at the bottom of the pot.
Fertilizing
Apply balanced or potassium-rich fertilizer every 15 days during flowering (June to October). Reduce or stop feeding in winter. Moderate feeding is sufficient; excess nitrogen promotes foliage at the expense of flowers.
Pruning and maintenance
Prune regularly to encourage branching and compact growth. Remove spent flowers to extend flowering. At season's end, cut back hard or allow the plant to self-seed naturally depending on your climate.
Pests and diseases
Watch for whiteflies and spider mites, especially in sheltered or warm conditions. Yellowing leaves may indicate excessive moisture or poor drainage. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
Did you know?
Velvetleaf takes its name from the Persian physician and philosopher Ibn Sina (Avicenna, 980-1037), who documented it in his medical writings. This plant was once cultivated in South Asia for its textile fibers before becoming a botanical curiosity in Europe. It has naturalized in various Mediterranean and subtropical regions, where it is sometimes considered invasive.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
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- Crimean lindenTilia euchlora
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.