| Etymology | Genus | Greek for water lily or promegranate, but now used for this unrelated genus |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Having sharp angles; perhaps referring to the awns of the carpels | |
| Family | Malvaceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Spiny-head Sida | |
| Status | Undetermined | |
| Form | Shrub | |
| Native Distribution | Obscure | |
Diagnostics:
Sida acuta is a shrub easily identified with its serrated leaves and yellow flowers. It is very similar in appearance to Sida rhombifolia, with the exception of its shorter flower stalk (< 1cm) and the seed (more accurately a mericap) having 2 pointed beaks instead of 1 or none (Holm et al., 1977).
Interesting Facts:
The Spiny-head Sida has deep tap roots which helps it to "withstand drought, mowing, or shallow infrequent tillage" (Holm et al., 1977).
A small outgrowth of the Spiny-head Sida.
Flower buds. Note short flower stalk.
Serrated leaf. Note that they are variable in shape.
Flower.
Seeds with 2 pointed beaks.
References
Holm LG & Plucknett DL & Pancho JV & Herberger JP. (1977) The World's Worst Weeds: Distribution and Biology. East-West Center/University Press of Hawaii. 609 pp.Author: Siyang
Posted: 2014-11-08 / Modified: 2019-08-27