China Jute, Velvetleaf, Butterprint Buttonweed Jute, China Mallow, Indian Velvet Leaf

Abutilon theophrasti

Physical Characteristics

Abutilon theophrasti is a ANNUAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in leaf from May to October, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Asia - tropical. Naturalised in S.E. Europe and the Mediterranean[50].

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Seed Edible Uses: Oil Seeds - raw or cooked. They can be eaten raw when they are under-ripe[179]. The ripe seed is dried and ground into a powder then used in soups, bread etc[177, 178]. It is washed first to remove any bitterness[179]. The seed contains about 17.4% protein, 16% fat, 33.8% carbohydrate, 4.4% ash[179]. Unripe fruit - raw[177]. This is really more of a seedpod[K].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Demulcent Diuretic Dysentery Emollient Laxative Ophthalmic Poultice Stomachic Urinary Ophthalmic. Used in the treatment of dysentery and opacity of the cornea[145, 178]. The leaves contain 0.01% rutin and are used as a demulcent[240]. A tea made from the dried leaves is used in the treatment of dysentery and fevers[222]. A poultice of the leaves is applied to ulcers[222]. The bark is astringent and diuretic[240]. A tea made from the dried root is used in the treatment of dysentery and urinary incontinence[222]. It is also used to treat fevers[240]. The seed is powdered and eaten in the treatment of dysentery, stomach-aches etc[222]. It is demulcent, diuretic, emollient, laxative and stomachic[218].

Known Hazards

None known