Hawaiian sida
sida fallax
Also known as: ["Hawaiian mallow","ʻāwikiwiki"]
Overview
A flowering plant native to Hawaii, known for its small, yellow flowers and slender stems.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Sida |
| Botanical Name: | Sida fallax |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in tropical or subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, ensure proximity to a bright window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil mix annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions with high humidity.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; monitor humidity levels.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, place in medium, keep moist, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape plant, dispose of clippings, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, position plant, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting leaves, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach roots, allow excess to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and increase susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Keep plant away from drafts and cold windows; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 60°F (15°C); reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration, especially if humidity is low.
Solution: Increase humidity with a pebble tray or mister; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before applying, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSida fallax is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSida fallax is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicSida fallax is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sida fallax toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Sida fallax?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Sida fallax attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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