Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti): A Weed with Soft Heart-Shaped Leaves and Sunflower-Like Seed Heads

Velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti): A Weed with Soft Heart-Shaped Leaves and Sunflower-Like Seed Heads

A school gardener took over a raised bed with unknown plants: 3 feet tall, soft heart-shaped leaves every 4-5 inches, 4-5 inches wide, yellow flowers like cucumber flowers, then sunflower-bud-like structures after petals drop.

Expert Identification

The plant is velvetleaf (Abutilon theophrasti), especially if leaves are soft/hairy. Flowers have 5 petals; the seed head contains many small heart/kidney-shaped seeds and turns blackish. Velvetleaf is a serious weed in corn areas. If in the corn belt, remove seed heads or pull the whole plant. However, it's easy to grow, non-poisonous, with cheerful flowers and unusual seed heads—could work in a school "wildflower" garden. The expert offered to help identify other plants if sent photos and region.