Also known as Bastard Okra · Malachra · Wild Hemp
Malachra alceifolia, the yellow leafbract, is a fast-growing herbaceous perennial known for its vibrant yellow bracts and lobed leaves. It thrives in warm climates.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Moderate to High
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct sun, especially in the morning.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost and extreme cold.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in cooler months, but do not let the plant dry out completely.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to encourage bushier growth. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pinch back tips to promote branching.
Light pruning can be done anytime, with heavier pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
Propagate easily from stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm cuttings from healthy stems in spring or summer. Remove lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.
Plant in a well-draining potting mix and keep moist and warm. Roots usually form within 4-6 weeks.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a pot that is slightly larger than the current one, with good drainage holes.
A well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of peat moss and perlite, is ideal. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Yellow Leafbract (Malachra alceifolia)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malachra |
| Species | Malachra alceifolia |
Similar in genus Malachra
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
