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Texas Indian mallow
Scientific Name: Abutilon fruticosum
Family: Malvaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Texas Indian Mallow (Abutilon fruticosum)
Abutilon fruticosum, also known as Texas Indian mallow, is a flowering plant belonging to the mallow family (Malvaceae). Other common names include pelotazo and sweet Indian mallow. General common names include Indian mallow and velvetleaf.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Abutilon fruticosum
- Family: Malvaceae (Mallow Family)
- Taxonomic Rank: Species
- Synonyms:
- Abutilon texense Torr. & A. Gray
- A. giganteum (Jacq.) - although this is also listed separately as Redvein Abutilon or Painted Indian Mallow.
Distribution and Habitat
- Texas Indian mallow is native to Texas and is found in dry areas, cliffs, and slopes.
- Specifically found in the Dry Frio River area of northern Uvalde County, southwestern Texas, on the southern border of the Edwards Plateau.
- Its range extends from Mexico to southern California, southern Arizona, South Texas, and peninsular Florida.
- It generally grows wild on the prairies and open woods of Central and West Texas.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Texas Indian mallow is a perennial subshrub forb.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- It serves as a caterpillar host plant for various species. Caterpillars that utilize it include those that feed on members of the mallow family (Malvaceae). Specific examples include the alkali mallow (Sida hederacea) and coastal Indian mallow (Abutilon permolle).
Further Information
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center - Austin, TX
- Dave's Garden
- Native Plant Society Of Texas
- Garden Guides