Abutilon theophrasti
Velvet Leaf
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Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Description
Abutilon theophrasti (Velvetleaf, China Jute, Buttonweed, Butterprint, Pie-marker, samuel eu bine or Indian Mallow) is an annual plant in the family Malvaceae, native to southern Asia.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Blooming
Abutilon flowers practically year round and are not heavy feeders so you can get away with fertilizer and a bloom enhancer (phosphorus) a couple of times a year. See "Fertilizer" section for more information. Though they like sun, most bloom best with partial shade. Too much shade will cut down on the blooming.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Growth
Abutilon seeds take about three days to germinate. When grown in cold-winter climates, they can be grown as potted plants. As the temperature cools, the pots can be moved indoors. During the summer months, the pot can be moved outside again. The ideal growth temperature is between 65 and 72 degrees; lower temperatures will stunt growth, and higher temperatures may cause abortion of buds. They are frost tender. Abutilon are best for growing along warm, sheltered walls. Many varieties require support.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Planting
Seeds should be planted in a disease-free medium that drains well and has a pH of between 5.5 and 6.3. Seeds should then be covered with a thin layer of vermiculite. In a cold climate, sow indoors before the last frost. You can also propagate from softwood and stem cuttings. Note: Seedlings won't flower until the following year while cuttings can bloom in as little as 3 months.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Pest
Whitefly and scale insects have an affinity for Abutilon and should be controlled.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Interesting facts
Flowering Maples are native to warm regions such as South America, India and tropical Asia. John Gillies (b. 1742, d.1834), Naval Surgeon and Historiographer Royal of Scotland is believed to have discovered Abutilon while in South America in 1820. One has to wonder what prompted a 70+ year old to travel to South America. Even though Abutilon need lots of room to grow, they are often used for house plants because of their showy flowers. You can control growth by pinching, pruning and keeping it somewhat root bound.
Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti) - Soil and irrigation
Flowering Maples require good drainage. Though they can do well in average, dry soil they prefer loamy soil. They do best with consistent moisture, and should not be left to wilt.
