camera identify
Try for Free
tab list
PictureThis
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Svenska
Polskie
ภาษาไทย
Bahasa Melayu
Bahasa Indonesia
PictureThis
Search
Search Plants
Try for Free
Global
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Svenska
Polskie
ภาษาไทย
Bahasa Melayu
Bahasa Indonesia
This page looks better in the app
about about
About
plant_info plant_info
More Info
distribution_map distribution_map
Distribution
topic topic
Care FAQ
care_scenes care_scenes
More About How-Tos
more_plants more_plants
Related Plants
pic top
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Sida acuta
Also known as : Common Fanpetals, Broomweed, Cheese Weed, Morning Mallow, Spiny-Head Spida
Sida acuta is a flowering perennial in the mallow family that is known as common Wireweed. The plant gets its name from its tough, wiry stems and branches. Though common Wireweed is native to Central America and southern North America, this hardy plant has become invasive elsewhere - its wiriness, unfortunately, makes it very difficult to remove from the ground by hand.
Hardiness Zones
Hardiness Zones
8 to 11
more
plant_info

Key Facts About Common Wireweed

Attributes of Common Wireweed

Lifespan
Perennial, Biennial
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
Summer
Plant Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃

Scientific Classification of Common Wireweed

icon
Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.
distribution

Distribution of Common Wireweed

Habitat of Common Wireweed

Dry and moist deciduous forests, improved pastures, disturbed areas, roadsides
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Common Wireweed

Common Wireweed is a plant with a wide reach, indigenous to parts of Central and South America. It is well-established on multiple continents and thrives particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. As an introduced species, common Wireweed has a significant presence across certain areas of Asia and Africa. Its proliferation in non-native territories can sometimes be seen as assertive, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems. However, the level of influence common Wireweed has on these ecosystems is approached with caution, taking care not to classify its presence too firmly as disruptive.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
question

Questions About Common Wireweed

Watering Watering Watering
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
What is the best way to water my Common Wireweed?
When watering the Common Wireweed, you should aim to use filtered water that is at room temperature. Filtered water is better for this plant, as tap water can contain particles that are harmful to its health. The reason that the water should be at room temperature or slightly warmer is that the Common Wireweed comes from a warm environment, and cold water can be somewhat of a shock to its system. Also, you should avoid overhead watering for this plant, as it can cause foliage complications. Instead, simply apply your filtered room temperature water to the soil until the soil is entirely soaked. Soaking the soil can be very beneficial for this plant as it moistens the roots and helps them continue to spread through the soil and collect the nutrients they need.
Read More more
What should I do if I water my Common Wireweed too much or too little?
Both overwatering and underwatering will be detrimental to the health of your Common Wireweed, but overwatering is a far more common issue. When this species receives too much water, its stems and leaves may begin to wilt and turn from green to yellow. Overwatering over a prolonged period may also lead to diseases such as root rot, mold, and mildew, all of which can kill your plant. Underwatering is far less common for the Common Wireweed, as this plant has decent drought tolerance. However, underwatering remains a possibility, and when it occurs, you can expect to find that the leaves of your Common Wireweed have become brittle and brown.
It is crucial that you notice the signs of overwatering as soon as possible when caring for your Common Wireweed. Some of the diseases that arise from overwatering, such as root rot, may not be correctable if you wait too long. If you see early signs of overwatering, you should reduce your watering schedule immediately. You may also want to assess the quality of soil in which your Common Wireweed grows. If you find that the soil drains very poorly, you should replace it immediately with a loose, well-draining potting mix. On the other hand, if you find signs that your Common Wireweed is receiving too little water, all you need to do is water more regularly until those signs have subsided.
Read More more
How often should I water my Common Wireweed?
If your plant is in a pot. The most precise way to decide whether your Common Wireweed needs water is to plunge your finger into the soil. If you notice that the first two to three inches of soil have become dry, it is time to add some water.
If you grow your Common Wireweed outdoors in the ground, you can use a similar method to test the soil. Again, when you find that the first few inches of soil have dried out, it is time to add water. During the spring and early fall, this method will often lead you to water this plant about once every week. When extremely hot weather arrives, you may need to increase your watering frequency to about twice or more per week. With that said, mature, well-established the Common Wireweed can show an admirable ability to withstand drought.
Read More more
How much water does my Common Wireweed need?
When it comes time to water your Common Wireweed, you should not be shy about how much water you give. With the first two to three inches of soil dry, this plant will appreciate a long and thorough watering. Supply enough water to soak the soil entirely. The amount of water you add should be enough to cause excess water to flow through the drainage holes at the bottom of your pot. If you don’t see excess water draining from the pot, you have likely underwatered your plant. But do not let the water accumulate inside the soil, which will be very dangerous to the plant as well. Alternatively, a lack of water draining through the pot could indicate poorly draining soils, which is detrimental to the health of this plant and should be avoided. If the plant is outside, 1 inch of rain per week will be sufficient.
Read More more
How should I water my Common Wireweed at different growth stages?
The water needs of the Common Wireweed can change depending on growth stages as well. For example, when your Common Wireweed is in the first few years of its life, or if you have just transplanted it to a new growing location, you will need to give more water than usual. During both of those stages, your Common Wireweed will put a lot of energy towards sprouting new roots that will then support future growth. For those roots to perform their best, they need a bit more moisture than they would at a more mature phase. After a few seasons, your Common Wireweed will need much less water. Another growth stage in which this plant may need more water is during the bloom period. Flower development can make use of a significant amount of moisture, which is why you might need to give your Common Wireweed more water at this time.
Read More more
How should I water my Common Wireweed through the seasons?
The Common Wireweed will have its highest water needs during the hottest months of the year. During the height of summer, you may need to give this plant water more than once per week, depending on how fast the soil dries out. The opposite is true during the winter. In winter, your plant will enter a dormant phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. In fact, you may not need to water this plant at all during the winter months. However, if you do water during winter, you should not do so more than about once per month. Watering too much at this time will make it more likely that your Common Wireweed will contract a disease.
Read More more
What's the difference between watering my Common Wireweed indoors and outdoors?
It is most common to grow the Common Wireweed indoors for any gardener that does not live in temperate and tropical regions. Those gardeners should consider the fact that soil in a container can dry out a bit faster than ground soil. Also, the presence of drying elements such as air conditioning units can cause your Common Wireweed to need water on a more frequent basis as well. if you planted it outside. When that is the case, it’s likely you won’t need to water your Common Wireweed very much at all. If you receive rainfall on a regular basis, that may be enough to keep your plant alive. Alternatively, those who grow this plant inside will need to water it more often, as allowing rainwater to soak the soil will not be an option.
Read More more
icon
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
close
care_scenes

More Info on Common Wireweed Growth and Care

Basic Care Guide
Lighting
Full sun
Common Wireweed thrives well in an environment exposed to copious amounts of sunlight. It can also endure in places with moderate light exposure. Extreme or deficient sun exposure may cause detrimental effects to its health and growth. Its origination habitat hints at its fondness for sunny conditions.
Best Sunlight Practices
Temperature
0 - 43 ℃
Common Wireweed is native to environments that typically experience temperatures between 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). This plant prefers a warm climate but can adjust to temperature variations with proper care. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary to maintain optimal growth.
Temp for Healthy Growth
other_plant

Plants Related to Common Wireweed

Deodar cedar
Deodar cedar
The deodar cedar is a fine-textured evergreen tree that's one of the most graceful conifers in many landscapes. It produces an aromatic oil that deters many insects but is home to birds and woodpeckers. In the Hindu religion, it's considered a sacred tree. Its specific epithet, deodara, is derived from the Sanskrit language, meaning "the wood of the gods."
Pink knotweed
Pink knotweed
Pink knotweed (Persicaria capitata) is an evergreen perennial plant that grows up to 15 cm tall and 1.5 m long. Pink knotweed grows best in full sun and thrives in a variety of soil conditions. Pink knotweed is often cultivated as ground cover. It is considered an invasive weed in some regions.
Common daisy
Common daisy
The common daisy produces iconic flowers that are seen in European and American folklore dating back centuries. It is often a representation of childlike innocence. The plant is edible and can be used in small quantities in salads, sandwiches, soups, or tea. However, it can also become toxic and cause digestive problems if eaten in quantity.
Santa Maria feverfew
Santa Maria feverfew
Parthenium hysterophorus or santa Maria feverfew is also called famine weed. It is an invasive weed that can disrupt the health of crops, pasture, livestock, and humans. A substance in the plant, called parthenin, is highly toxic and can cause dermatitis and breathing difficulties in humans and animals.
Sisal
Sisal
Sisal (Agave sisalana) is a succulent plant whose yellow flowers bloom along a stalk rising up to 9 m tall and have an unpleasant scent. The flowers, stalk, basal rosette and sap of this plant are edible. Plant in full sun outdoors or place in a bright, sunny location indoors.
Green foxtail
Green foxtail
Green foxtail (Setaria viridis) is a summer annual grass that is considered a weed of crops, turf, landscapes and nurseries. It produces a seed head with fringed bristles that resembles a fox’s tail. Grows in full sun and poor, disturbed soil types. Attracts a variety of insects and birds, as well as squirrels, mice and other small animals.
Poison ivy
Poison ivy
In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.
Pokeweed
Pokeweed
Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.
View More Plants
close
product icon
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
ad
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
More Info
Distribution
Care FAQ
More About How-Tos
Related Plants
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Common Wireweed
Sida acuta
Also known as: Common Fanpetals, Broomweed, Cheese Weed, Morning Mallow, Spiny-Head Spida
Sida acuta is a flowering perennial in the mallow family that is known as common Wireweed. The plant gets its name from its tough, wiry stems and branches. Though common Wireweed is native to Central America and southern North America, this hardy plant has become invasive elsewhere - its wiriness, unfortunately, makes it very difficult to remove from the ground by hand.
Hardiness Zones
Hardiness Zones
8 to 11
more
plant_info

Key Facts About Common Wireweed

Attributes of Common Wireweed

Lifespan
Perennial, Biennial
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
Summer
Plant Height
61 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Yellow
Flower Size
2.5 cm
Flower Color
Yellow
Leaf type
Semi-evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃
icon
Gain more valuable plant knowledge
Explore a rich botanical encyclopedia for deeper insights
Download the App

Scientific Classification of Common Wireweed

icon
Never miss a care task again!
Plant care made easier than ever with our tailor-made smart care reminder.
Download the App
distribution

Distribution of Common Wireweed

Habitat of Common Wireweed

Dry and moist deciduous forests, improved pastures, disturbed areas, roadsides
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Common Wireweed

Common Wireweed is a plant with a wide reach, indigenous to parts of Central and South America. It is well-established on multiple continents and thrives particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. As an introduced species, common Wireweed has a significant presence across certain areas of Asia and Africa. Its proliferation in non-native territories can sometimes be seen as assertive, where it may have an impact on local ecosystems. However, the level of influence common Wireweed has on these ecosystems is approached with caution, taking care not to classify its presence too firmly as disruptive.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
question

Questions About Common Wireweed

Watering Watering Watering
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
What is the best way to water my Common Wireweed?
more
What should I do if I water my Common Wireweed too much or too little?
more
How often should I water my Common Wireweed?
more
How much water does my Common Wireweed need?
more
How should I water my Common Wireweed at different growth stages?
more
How should I water my Common Wireweed through the seasons?
more
What's the difference between watering my Common Wireweed indoors and outdoors?
more
icon
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
Download the App
close
care_scenes

More Info on Common Wireweed Growth and Care

Basic Care Guide
plant_info

Plants Related to Common Wireweed

product icon close
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
product icon close
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Lighting
close
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips.
Requirements
Full sun
Ideal
Above 6 hours sunlight
Partial sun
Tolerance
About 3-6 hours sunlight
Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.
Essentials
Common Wireweed thrives well in an environment exposed to copious amounts of sunlight. It can also endure in places with moderate light exposure. Extreme or deficient sun exposure may cause detrimental effects to its health and growth. Its origination habitat hints at its fondness for sunny conditions.
Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
icon
Know the light your plants really get.
Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.
Download the App
Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
View more
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Insufficient Light in %s
Common Wireweed thrives in full sunlight and is commonly grown outdoors where it receives ample sunlight. When placed in rooms with inadequate lighting, symptoms of light deficiency may not be readily apparent.
View more
(Symptom details and solutions)
Small leaves
New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Leggy or sparse growth
The spaces between leaves or stems of your Common Wireweed may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.
Faster leaf drop
When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.
Slower or no new growth
Common Wireweed enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Lighter-colored new leaves
Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Solutions
1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Symptoms of Excessive light in %s
Common Wireweed thrives in full sun exposure and can tolerate intense sunlight. With their remarkable resilience, symptoms of sunburn may not be easily visible, as they rarely suffer from it.
View more
(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald
Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling
Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting
Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching
Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.
Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Temperature
close
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips.
Requirements
Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.
Essentials
Common Wireweed is native to environments that typically experience temperatures between 68 to 100 °F (20 to 38 ℃). This plant prefers a warm climate but can adjust to temperature variations with proper care. Seasonal adjustments may be necessary to maintain optimal growth.
Regional wintering strategies
Common Wireweed has some cold tolerance and generally does not require any additional measures when the temperature is above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. However, if the temperature is expected to drop below {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}, it is necessary to take some temporary measures for cold protection, such as wrapping the plant with plastic film, fabric, or other materials. Once the temperature rises again, the protective measures should be removed promptly.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Low Temperature in %s
Common Wireweed has moderate tolerance to low temperatures and thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may start to droop. In mild cases, they can recover, but in severe cases, the leaves will wilt and eventually fall off.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Prior to encountering low temperatures again, wrap the plant with materials such as non-woven fabric or cloth, and construct a wind barrier to protect it from the cold wind.
Symptoms of High Temperature in %s
During summer, Common Wireweed should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, the leaf tips may become dry and withered, the leaves may curl, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to create shade. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.
Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Cookie Management Tool
In addition to managing cookies through your browser or device, you can change your cookie settings below.
Necessary Cookies
Necessary cookies enable core functionality. The website cannot function properly without these cookies, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.
Analytical Cookies
Analytical cookies help us to improve our application/website by collecting and reporting information on its usage.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_ga Google Analytics These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here. 1 Year
_pta PictureThis Analytics We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_ga
Source
Google Analytics
Purpose
These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_pta
Source
PictureThis Analytics
Purpose
We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience.
Lifespan
1 Year
Marketing Cookies
Marketing cookies are used by advertising companies to serve ads that are relevant to your interests.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_fbp Facebook Pixel A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here. 1 Year
_adj Adjust This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_fbp
Source
Facebook Pixel
Purpose
A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_adj
Source
Adjust
Purpose
This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year
This page looks better in the app
Open