Abutilon theophrasti (commonly known as velvetleaf) is a summer-emerging, annual, broad-leaf weed native to Asia. The species can be found mainly in the Central Valley (and mostly in the Sacramento Valley) in agronomic crop systems, along roadsides, in orchards and vineyards, and in other disturbed areas.

Cotyledons (approximately 1/2 inch (12 mm) long and wide) are rounded to heart-shaped in appearance. The first true leaves are heart-shaped with with shallow and rounded-toothed margins. Velvetleaf cotyledons, leaves and petioles are covered with fine, soft hairs (hence the name 'velvetleaf'). 

Images are included in a printable PDF document at the end of the post. For more information about velvetleaf, please connect to the following UC IPM website: http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/WEEDS/velvetleaf.html

Figure 1. Emerging velvetleaf seedlings. Note that one cotyledon is more rounded whereas the other is more heart-shaped.

Figure 2. Close-up of velvetleaf cotyledons.

Figure 3. First true leaves of velvetleaf. Cotyledons and leaves are covered with fine, soft hairs. First leaves have rounded teeth and are heart-shaped.

Figure 4. Velvetleaf plant.