Velvet-Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti Medic.)

Family - Malvaceae

Flowering - June - October.

Habitat - Cultivated fields, waste ground, disturbed sites, roadsides, railroads.

Origin - Native to India.

Photographic Location - Sycamore Ridge Ranch in Middle TN.

Other info. - This introduced weed can be found throughout Tennessee. The entire plant is covered with short, soft trichomes and the plant is commonly called "Velvet-leaf." It is most commonly seen along disturbed roadsides and in unkempt cultivated fields. In fact, the Syngenta corporation in North Carolina is developing varieties of corn which produce an herbicide specifically targeted against Abutilon.
The Chinese used (use) the plant for many ailments such as fever, dysentery, and stomachaches. In experiments it has been shown to be a depressant. Velvetleaf has been grown in China since around 2000 BCE for its strong, jute-like fibre to make cordage, thread, nets, and woven bags.