The fruits contain up to 20 seeds in segmented wheel-shaped rings that resemble cheese wheels. The developing fruits are edible but slimy, like the related crop okra. Crystal Cove State Park, Laguna Beach, CA. 3-22-08. © Joan Avise. |
Cheeseweed Malva parviflora Exotic species, native to Eurasia and North Africa. A widespread common annual in disturbed places. Back to Malvaceae of Orange County, California |
12-30 in.sparsely hairy; sharply lobed sawtoothed leaves on long stems. Crystal Cove State Park, Laguna Beach, CA. 3-22-08. © Joan Avise. |
Associated Insect |
(Also exotic) Red Bug, Scantius (=Lodosiana) aegyptius |