SafePlants

Bastardia viscosa: Viscid Mallow

Bastardia viscosa, commonly known as Viscid Mallow, is a flowering plant belonging to the Mallow family. This plant can be found in various locations, showcasing its adaptability and intriguing botanical characteristics.

Considerations for Pets

• The name "viscid mallow" suggests the presence of a sticky substance, which could potentially adhere to pet fur.
• As a member of the shrub family, there is a chance this plant could have small parts or thorns.

Considerations for Children

• The name "viscid mallow" suggests the presence of a sticky substance, which could adhere to skin or clothing.
• As a member of the shrub family, there is a chance this plant could have small parts or thorns.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth
• Common Name: Viscid Mallow
• Family: Malvaceae (Mallow Family)
• Rank: Species
• Synonym: Mentions of the plant being sticky.
• Varieties: Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa

Distribution and Habitat

• Bastardia viscosa can be found in Texas, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.
• Observed in locations such as the Barton Creek Greenbelt in Austin, Texas.
• Also found near the Chichen Itza Ruins in central Mexico.
• Presence confirmed in the L. Antilles and Bahamas.
• Not found in Idaho.

Morphological Characteristics

• Classified as a subshrub, shrub, or forb/herb.
• Perennial plant, meaning it lives for more than two years.
• Can reach a height of up to 17 meters.
• Not an evergreen, meaning it loses its leaves seasonally.
• The plant is noted to be "sticky."

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Observed to interact with the Galapagos carpenter bee (Xylocopa darwini).

Other Common Names

• Yellow Ground Mallow
• Bastardia
• Cordon de Seda
• Malva

Resources

• Information can be found on Discover Life's pages.
• Data available at www.wildflower.org.