Yellow Ilima

(Sida fallax)

Yellow Ilima (Sida fallax)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 32" - 114"
High Temp. 77°F - 88°F
Low Temp. 58°F - 65°F

Summary

Sida fallax, commonly known as Yellow Ilima, is a perennial shrub native to coastal areas, dry forests, and shrublands of Hawaii, as well as Micronesia and Western Polynesia. It varies greatly in size, from a small ground cover to a shrub that reaches 1-10 feet in height and 3-8 feet in width. The Yellow Ilima has small, cup-shaped, bright yellow flowers that bloom year-round, with peak flowering in the spring. These flowers, which can be solitary or in small clusters, are quite showy and are the official flower of the island of Oahu. The plant has a cultural significance in Hawaii, where its flowers were once strung into leis for royalty and used in traditional medicine.

Yellow Ilima is valued for its drought tolerance and is often used in xeriscaping, native plant gardens, and as a ground cover or border plant in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. While it is generally easy to maintain, it can be susceptible to pests like aphids and whiteflies. Yellow Ilima does not typically present problems with aggressive roots or diseases. It is, however, sensitive to overwatering, which can lead to root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 1-10 feet
  • Width: 3-8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Groundcover, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Coastal areas, dry forests, and shrublands of Hawaii

Other Names

Common Names: Ilima, Golden Mallow

Scientific Names: Sida fallax, Sida ulmifolia, Sida meyeniana, Sida sertum, Sida diellii, Sida fallax var. kauaiensis, Sida ledyardii, Sida nelsonii, Sida rotundifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Sida fallax Walp.