Velvetleaf
(Abutilon theophrasti)

Overview

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Velvetleaf is an annual weed that is extremely competitive, particularly in corn and soybean crops. The species A. theophrasti has caused widespread economic losses in the attempted control and loss of crops in North America over the last few decades.

Main description

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Seedling
The hypocotyls of Velvetleaf are saturated with soft hairs, and first leaves are alternating and heart shaped.

Mature plant
As this plant matures, its leaves remain heart shaped with a pronounced point at the end, which grow 4-18 cm long as well as wide. Stems are green in colour and can range from 200-250 cm in height. The upper surface of the leaf is covered with long, soft-to-the-touch hairs. The flowers are produced on individual stalks which are short in length in the superior region of the plant.

Optimal growth conditions

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Primarily, this weed of agronomic crops is found throughout most of North America. Velvetleaf grows under whatever conditions crops also grow.