Velvet Leaf (Abutilon theophrasti), native to southern Asia, has now become invasive in the northeastern United States and eastern Canada. It tends to be found in fallow agricultural lands. Its seeds are able to live for up to 20 years and will germinate when brought to the surface by tilling.
It has velvety heart-shaped leaves with yellow flowers. The seed pods look like crowns.
Velvet Leaf has a variety of culinary and fiber uses. Mostly, however, it reputation is that of an invasive plant that is detrimental to agricultural endeavors.
