Sida corrugata Lindl.

Taxonomic Identity and Growth Form

Sida corrugata Lindl. is a decumbent or prostrate perennial plant that spreads to 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter.

Stem Characteristics

Its stems are either smooth or covered in a dense layer of matted hairs.

Leaf Arrangement and General Shape

Leaves are arranged alternately along the stems; they are hairy, narrowly ovate or linear in shape, measuring 5–50 mm (0.20–1.97 in) long and 2–10 mm (0.079–0.394 in) wide.

Leaf Base Morphology

Leaf bases are either rounded or nearly heart-shaped.

Leaf Surface, Margin, and Petiole

The upper leaf surface is grayish green to dark green, while the lower surface is paler; leaf margins are finely toothed, and leaves attach to stems via a 1.3–2.3 mm (0.051–0.091 in) long petiole.

Flower Petal Characteristics

Flowers have five yellow petals that are 5–6 mm (0.20–0.24 in) long.

Calyx Morphology

Calyx lobes are 1.5–2.5 mm (0.059–0.098 in) long, triangular, and taper to a pointed apex.

Flowering Period

Flowering can occur at any time of year.

Fruit Characteristics

The fruit is a deeply corrugated, globe-shaped mericarp, 5 mm (0.20 in) in diameter, densely covered in short, soft hairs.

Common Name and Distribution Range

This species, commonly called corrugate sida, grows in a range of habitats across New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, and the Northern Territory.

Habitat and Substrate

It occurs in grasslands and woodlands, growing in clay, fertile loam, and sandy soils.