Sida antillensis

Subshrubs, 0.5(–1) m. Stems erect, glabrescent. Leaves: stipules free from petiole, 1-veined, linear, 3–6 mm, subequal to petiole; petiole 2–5 mm, ca. 1/4 length of blade, glabrescent; blade lanceolate-elliptic to round, 1.5–5 cm, somewhat longer than wide, base truncate, margins dentate apically, entire basally, apex acute or obtuse, surfaces minutely hairy. Inflorescences axillary solitary subsessile flowers. Pedicels not slender, 0.4–1.2 cm, usually shorter than calyx. Flowers: calyx ribbed, 5–8 mm, glabrescent, lobes acute or acuminate; petals yellow, 6–8 mm; style 8–10-branched. Schizocarps subconic, 5–6 mm diam., glabrous; mericarps 8–10, laterally reticulate, apex spined, spines to 1.5 mm, puberulent.

Phenology: Flowering year-round.
Habitat: Roadsides, disturbed sites, often in sandy areas
Elevation: 0–50 m

Fla., West Indies, Central America.

Discussion

Sida antillensis has been found in Collier, Hendry, Lee, Miami-Dade, and Monroe counties, where it is generally said to be introduced. It is widespread in the West Indies and could be native to parts of coastal Florida.

Selected References

None.

Lower Taxa