Origin
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as Filirostrate beggarticks, is a flowering plant species in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the United States, specifically from Michigan to Louisiana and Florida, and can be found in both wet and dry habitats, including prairies, savannas, meadows, and roadsides.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Filirostrate beggarticks, as well as filirostrate tickseed and thin-awned beggarticks.
Uses
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris has been used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, including as a treatment for fever and stomach ailments. However, there is very little scientific evidence to support these traditional uses.
As an ornamental plant, Filirostrate beggarticks can be grown in gardens and landscapes, adding a touch of yellow and green to the scenery.
General Appearance
The plant grows up to 3 feet tall, with branchy stems that are typically green or reddish-brown. The leaves are thin and lance-shaped, usually hairy, and grow from 1-3 inches long. The yellow flowers bloom from August to October, with the center of each flower being dark brown or dark red. The plant produces small fruits that have hooks or barbs that can stick to clothing, fur, or feathers.
Growth Conditions of Bidens Acuticaulis Sherff var. Filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as Lyon's Tickleseed, is a species of flowering plant that is native to the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico. This plant can be found growing in dry, rocky, and often disturbed habitats such as roadsides and washes.
Light
Lyon's Tickleseed requires full to partial sunlight to grow well. This plant thrives in bright and sunny locations with around 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. When grown indoors, place the plant near a south-facing window to ensure it receives enough sunlight.
Temperature
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner prefers a warm and dry climate. This plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it grows best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can severely damage this plant.
Soil Requirements
A well-draining soil mixture is essential for the healthy growth of Lyon's Tickleseed. This plant prefers sandy or loamy soils with a pH ranging between 5.5 and 7.5. It is best to keep the soil consistently moist but not saturated. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Furthermore, this plant is drought tolerant and can withstand periods of water scarcity. However, it is essential to ensure that it does not go for too long without water as this can affect its growth and overall health.
Cultivation Methods:
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner thrives in well-drained soils, but it can also tolerate a range of soil types. It does well in full sun to partial shade. Planting should be done during the spring or early summer when the soil is warm enough.
It is also essential to provide enough space between the plants as they can grow up to 2-3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. Adding a layer of mulch around the plant can help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, prevent weed growth, and improve the soil's fertility.
Watering Needs:
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner prefers moderate watering, enough to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Fertilization:
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner does not require much fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) mixture. This should be done at the beginning of the growing season and once more after the first round of flowering.
Pruning:
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner does not require extensive pruning, but deadheading the spent flowers can encourage more blooms and prevent seed production, which can cause the plant to spread rapidly. Pruning can also help contain its height and spread, making it more manageable in the garden.
Propagation of Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner can be propagated through various methods. The following are the most common:
Seed Propagation
Using seeds is the most common and easiest way to propagate the plant. The seeds can be collected from the plant when mature and sown in seed trays or directly in the ground. The best time to sow the seeds is in spring or autumn. The soil should be moist, and the seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedlings will emerge in about two weeks, and they should be thinned out to avoid overcrowding. The plants can be transplanted once they are about 6 inches tall.
Division
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner can also be propagated through division. This method is used to propagate mature plants that have developed root systems. The plant is lifted carefully, and the root clumps are divided using a sharp knife. The divided plants can then be planted in either seed trays or directly in the ground. The soil should be moist, and the plants should be watered regularly until they are well established.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner. This method is used for propagating plants that are difficult to grow from seed. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants during early spring or late summer. The cuttings should be about 5 inches long and should have at least two leaf nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in fresh, moist potting soil. They should be kept warm and moist until they root, which may take up to four weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to the desired location.
Disease Management
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris (P.Taylor) T.G.J.Rayner is a relatively hardy plant. However, it can be susceptible to a few diseases that are common in the same family of plants.
Fungal Diseases: Some common fungal diseases that may affect Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris include powdery mildew, rust, and Botrytis blight. These diseases often occur during humid weather conditions or when the plants are watered excessively. To prevent these fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering, provide adequate air circulation, and remove any infected plant tissues promptly. Fungicides may also be applied as a preventive measure.
Viral Diseases: Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris may also be susceptible to viral diseases like Tomato spotted wilt virus. The virus is transmitted through thrips, which feed on the plant and spread the virus. Infected plants show stunted growth, leaf curling, and yellowing. Control measures include removal of infected plants, insecticide application, and avoiding planting during periods of high thrips activity.
Pest Management
Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris is generally relatively resistant to pest infestations, but it can still be attacked by a few common garden pests.
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that feed on the sap of Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris. Infested plants show stunted growth, distorted leaves, and wilting. Control measures include using insecticides, introducing natural predators, or spraying a mixture of water and dish soap.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause yellow spotting on leaves and webbing on the plant. They can cause severe damage if left untreated. Control measures include regular monitoring and using insecticides or predatory mites.
Thrips: Thrips are also common pests that feed on the foliage of Bidens acuticaulis Sherff var. filirostris, causing damage like stippling and distortions. Control measures include using insecticides, introducing natural predators like ladybugs or removing and destroying infested plant tissues.
