1 named cultivar

‘Talini's Pink’Flowering Maple

annualN. America Native

Velvetleaf

Abutilon theophrasti

The Story

Plant Bio

Abutilon theophrasti, or Velvetleaf, is a tall, erect annual weed with large, heart-shaped, velvety leaves and small, five-petaled yellow flowers that bloom in the leaf axils.

Considered a noxious agricultural weed in many regions, it is a prolific seed producer and competes aggressively with crops.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides vibrant foliage and attractive flowers, ideal for borders and containers.

Easy to grow and maintain, offering quick coverage for privacy screens.

Supports pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

60 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Southern Asia

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist during growing season.
Provide full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during spring and summer.
Prune lightly after flowering to promote bushier growth.
Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Start seeds indoors 6 weeks before last frost for earlier blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
Prune to shape and remove dead or damaged branches
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don't ignore pest signs early
Refrain from heavy pruning during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall hedge with vibrant green foliageColorful border with soft flowering accents

Companion Plants

Marigolds Petunias Lantanas Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Velvetleaf questions

Is Velvetleaf deer resistant?

Yes — Velvetleaf is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Velvetleaf bloom?

Velvetleaf typically blooms in mid-summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Velvetleaf need full sun?

Velvetleaf does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Velvetleaf drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Velvetleaf handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.