Country Mallow (Sida)

Sida cordifolia

Tropical or subtropical woody shrub, grown in temperate climates as an annual.  Native to  the main tropics on earth. This yellow-flowered, pubescent and many-branched plant contains ephedrine.  Use with caution. They are employed in Ayurvedic practice as a cardiac stimulant.  Applied externally, the leaves provide a demulcent, cooling and astringent poultice.  General cultivation: Scarify seed vigorously and sow directly in the garden, or in pots or flats in the spring.  Plant prefers full sun to part shade and a rich, moist soil.  Good drainage not necessary.   Slow to germ.  Space plants 2 feet apart.  Grows to 2 feet tall.

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