Abutilon fruticosum

Abutilon fruticosum is a widespread species of flowering plant in the mallow family known by the common names Texas Indian mallow, pelotazo, and sweet Indian mallow.

Description

The perennial herb grows up to tall, but usually not exceeding. The alternately arranged leaves are up to long. The blades are thick and coated in hairs, appearing gray. The yellow-orange flowers are up to about wide. Flowering occurs in June through October in Texas.

Distribution and habitat

The plant is native to Africa, southern and southwestern Asia, northern Mexico, and the south-central United States. It grows in chaparral and woodlands and on prairies. It grows on cliffs, slopes, and limestone outcrops.

Ecology

It is eaten by wild and domesticated ungulates. The seeds provide food for birds such as the bobwhite quail. The flowers attract birds and butterflies. It is host to larvae of a number of butterfly species.

Uses

The species is drought-tolerant and can be used in xeriscaping.