Some of the plants in the garden did not have to be introduced, they came on their own. They are the group of native plants that are commonly called weeds. One of these is Sida ulmifolia. You may know this plant as common wireweed, common fanpetals or just Sida.
The plant has small yellow or cream colored flowers with 5 petals, which occur singly on flower stalks that arise from the area between the stems and leaf petioles. There are many stamens attached to the pistil creating a very lovely little flower. The stems are often sprawling and branched; the lower portions are somewhat woody. The plant can grow erect and get as tall as 2 feet but is typically seen in areas that are mowed, keeping it low. The leaves are dark green, smooth and notched or toothed on the edge, teeth pointing forward or toward the apex.
We are encouraging this plant in the walk areas around the old butterfly garden.
This plant is the larval host for the Grey Hairstreak, Strymon melinus, Mallow Scrub-Hairstreak, Strymon istapa, Common Checkered-Skipper, Pyrgus communis and the Tropical Checkered-Skipper, Pyrgus oileus. It is also a good alternative to grass. It is hardy. Walk on it all you want; mow it occasionally if you want to keep it low. It easily self-seeds and spreads. The plant blooms all year, providing nectar and color during our cold season.
REFERENCES:
Atlas of Florida Vascular Plants, Sida ulmifolia www.florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Plant.aspx?id=2753
Taylor, WK. The Guide to Florida Wildflowers. Lanham, MD : Taylor Trade Publishing, 1992. p.150.