prickly sida Sida spinosa L.
Family: Malvaceae (mallow family)
Life cycle: annual
Habitat: crop fields, gardens, waste areas
General description: Branched, erect plant reaching heights of 1.5 ft. Leaves are ovate to oval, alternate, up to 2” long with serrate margins. Petioles have linear stipules at base Pale yellow flowers found in axils of leaves. Small spurs (spines) are produced at the base of the petioles on the nodes. These spurs are the source of common and botanical name.
Key ID traits: Serrated, lanceolate leaves with two spines on nodes of the stem.
Similar species: The cotyledons and first leaves resemble those of velvetleaf, but lack the soft hairs.
Fun facts: Prickly sida historically was considered a southern weed, but is becoming more common in Iowa, especially in the southeast part of the state. Also called teaweed since leaves similar to those of tea.
Meaghan Anderson Field Agronomist in Central Iowa
Meaghan Anderson is a field agronomist in central Iowa and an extension specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Educational programming is available for farmers, agribusinesses, pesticide applicators, certified crop advisors, and other individuals interested in crop ...