Velvetleaf is one of those plants you don't notice until you look, then you see it everywhere - field edges, disturbed areas. Non-native (noxious in north west states) originating from China velvetleaf was brought to the Americas as a new source of fiber, especially for use as rope for ships. It was grown for about 100 years until it was abandoned for easier, more durable fibers. It is now found in all the lower 48.
The name velvetleaf comes from the soft cottony texture of the leaves - can be used as tp in case of outdoor emergency. Seeds are edible.
2 Comments
Michael Franks
9/19/2018 07:01:47 pm
Another introduced species that I never noticed, before discovering one at Barnes Preserve, is Autumn Olive. Now I see them everywhere we travel.
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Emily (Admin)
9/20/2018 10:59:50 am
Yes! After learning about that at Barnes, I'm amazed just how far it has spread! Good observation!
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AboutSince 2015 we have been exploring and sharing all the amazing things we’ve found in nature. AuthorEmily is an Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist who is most often found out in the woods. Archives
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