Prickly sida - Sida spinosa (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Prickly sida

Also known as: Spiny sida, False mallow, Prickly fan-petals

The prickly sida (Sida spinosa) is a broadleaf herb that commonly invades crops, roadsides and pastures and is frequently viewed as a weed. Small flowers bloom during bright mornings mid-summer to early fall, attracting various types of bees and butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

Prickly sida (Sida spinosa)

Mallows, rock-roses, and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Herb

Plant Type

All year round

Bloom Time

10 cm to 1 m

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

5 mm to 7 mm

Flower Size

White, Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Prickly sida

Distribution of Prickly sida

Distribution Map

Prickly sida's native range spans across major regions of Africa, South Asia, and Latin America, while it has been introduced to parts of Europe and East Asia. The plant thrives in a variety of climates and landscapes within these continents, indicating its adaptability to different environments. Its spread beyond its native territory suggests it can establish in a diverse array of ecological settings.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Abandoned open fields, roadsides, pastures, along railway tracks, waste areas, open woodlands, riparian areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Prickly sida

Diminutive flowers, 1/3 inch (8.5mm), with light yellow to orange floppy petals.

Distinct oval leaves, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm), with pinnate veins and serrated margins.

Stems covered in fine white hairs, reaching up to 2 feet (60 cm) in height.

Reddish-brown star-shaped segmented fruit capsule less than an inch (2.54 cm) wide.

Axillary flowers on sparse branching stems, blossoming from leaf nodes.

Identify plants with a snap

Instantly identify plants with AI: Snap a photo, and get accurate results within seconds.

Download the App for Free

Care Guide for Prickly sida

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Prickly sida thrives in subtropical environments, requiring moderate moisture and weekly watering for optimal health. It can withstand short dry periods but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged droughts. Efficient irrigation is essential for its growth cycle and robust development.

Fertilize: Prickly sida thrives on a balanced nutrition fertilizer, applied monthly in spring and summer, then bi-monthly in dormancy. Use diluted fertilizers to prevent root burn and incorporate organic matter for soil fertility. Water thoroughly post-fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption and support healthy growth.

Pruning: Prickly sida should be pruned in early to late spring, focusing on dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy growth. Regular light pruning enhances air circulation, controls spread, and maintains a compact shape, ensuring a robust and well-structured plant throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Prickly sida belongs to the Malvaceae family and is resilient and adaptable. Propagation involves sowing seeds in well-draining, organic-rich soil. Light soil coverage and consistent moisture are vital for germination, allowing prickly sida to establish quickly with minimal care when conditions are optimal.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Images of Prickly sida

Distribution of Prickly sida

Quickly Identify Prickly sida

Care Guide for Prickly sida

PEOPLE ALSO ASK