Waltheria indica is an erect to spreading perennial shrublet, 0.3 – 1 m tall, with zig-zag-edged, grey-green, hairy leaves and thin stems covered in star-shaped hairs. It produces small, yellow flowers clustered between leaves and stems throughout the year. The plant is hardy, adaptable, and spreads easily in sandy soils, often forming small patches in open grasslands, woodlands, rocky slopes, riverbanks, and disturbed areas.
Flowers attract a variety of flying insects, especially bees and butterflies, supporting pollinator diversity. The plant provides ground cover for small invertebrates and helps stabilize soils in disturbed habitats. Its seeds are dispersed by rain, animals, and human activity, allowing it to colonize new areas.
Small, yellow flowers appear year-round; pollinated by insects. Fruits are small, one-seeded capsules that dry and disperse easily.
Not a direct food source, but supports insectivorous birds by attracting pollinators and other insects.
Collect capsules before fully brown, dry, and sow in moist soil; germination in 1 – 3 months.
Not commonly used; seed propagation preferred.
Leaves used as a leafy vegetable and for treating wounds, infections, and infant illnesses; roots and whole plant used in traditional medicine for various ailments.
Not a primary fodder species, but grazed by livestock in disturbed areas.
Can be toxic in large doses; generally safe in traditional use.
Useful for stabilizing soils, providing ground cover, and supporting pollinator diversity in restoration projects.
