Overview:
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff belongs to the family Asteraceae and is commonly known as the Smallscale Spanish Needles. This plant is indigenous to Mexico and the Southwestern United States.
Appearance:
Small scale Spanish needles form low, spreading masses that grow up to 30 cm in height. The leaves of the plant are deep green and slender, about 1 inch long, and toothed along the edges. The stem of the plant is short and smooth, with fine hairs along its surface. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in length, and bright yellow in color. They bloom in clusters from late spring to fall, creating a beautiful display.
Uses:
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff has been utilized for medicinal and culinary purposes in various cultures throughout history. The Navajo used it to treat stomach pain while the Cherokee made a tea infusion of the plant's leaves to aid in digestion. The Hopi used it to treat colds and flu. Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is also a source of food for various animals including deer, birds, and insects.
It is also used as an ornamental plant in the garden and for landscaping purposes due to its compact size, appealing appearance, and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Growth Conditions for Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata requires specific growth conditions for it to thrive. Here are some of the critical factors that contribute to the ideal growth environment:
Light
Like most plants, Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata requires adequate light to grow optimally. It thrives when grown under partial shade to full sun exposure. However, too much direct sunlight can harm the plant, and it needs some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature
For optimal growth, Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata requires a warm environment. Ideally, the temperature should range between 60-80°F (16-27°C). It thrives in environments with high humidity, which means that air conditioning or dehumidifiers may be required in drier climates.
Soil Requirements
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata requires well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to grow optimally. A soil pH of 5.6–7.5 is ideal. It does well in moist soil but can't tolerate waterlogged conditions or drought-like conditions for extended periods. The soil should be tilled to at least six inches deep, and organic matter or compost should be added to increase fertility.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff is an exotic plant with unique characteristics that make it an excellent addition to any garden. If you intend to cultivate it, you need to consider the following methods.
1. Soil: Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff requires well-draining soil. You can use loamy soil or mix organic matter like compost with heavy soil to improve drainage.
2. Sunlight: This plant thrives in full sunlight. Therefore, ensure that it receives direct sunlight for at least six hours daily.
3. Planting: Plant the Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff in early spring or after the last frost. Space them six to eight inches apart and plant the root ball's depth into the soil.
Watering Needs for Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff requires consistent watering to maintain its optimal health. The following are essential watering tips.
1. Frequency: Water the plant regularly, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Water the plants at least twice a week during the growing season, especially when the soil is dry.
2. Irrigation: You can use a drip irrigation system to ensure uniform watering. This system helps prevent overwatering of some plants and under-watering of others.
Fertilization of Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff requires regular fertilizer application to support its nutrient requirements. Below are essential tips when fertilizing the plant.
1. Fertilizer type: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer like a 10-10-10 NPK ratio fertilizer to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant.
2. Fertilizing period: Fertilize the plant at least twice, first in early spring before the growth season and second after the first flowering. This process encourages healthy growth and blooming.
Pruning of Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff
Bidens asymmetrica (Levl.) Sherff var. subocculata O. Deg. & Sherff ex Sherff requires pruning to prevent it from becoming too bushy or untidy. Here are some tips when pruning the plant:
1. Timing: Prune the plant in early summer, just after the first flowering.
2. Tools: Use a sharp and sterilized pruning shear to avoid injuring the plant.
3. Cutting points: Cut off all the dead or faded flowers and the damaged or diseased stems and leaves to promote new growth.
Propagation of Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata can be propagated through several methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata is mainly done through seeds. The plant produces numerous seeds that can be collected when mature or at the end of the growing season. To ensure a successful germination process, it's advised to use fresh seeds. The seeds should then be treated with a fungicide before sowing to prevent any fungal infection and soaked in water for 24-36 hours for better germination rates. Sow the seeds in well-draining, fertile soil mix at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep, and lightly cover the seeds with soil. Keep the seeds consistently moist and warm at about 70°F. Germination typically occurs within 7 to 21 days.
Cuttings Propagation
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is best done in the spring for optimal growth. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy and mature plant, ideally one that has not yet flowered. The cuttings should be about 4 to 6 inches long, snipped from the parent plant just below a node. To encourage growth, remove the lower leaves from the cuttings and dip the end in rooting hormone powder. Then, plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, keeping it moist and positioned in a partly shaded area until the roots form, usually within a span of 4 to 6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata can also be propagated through division, usually during the early spring before the growing season. Divide the parent plant to create several smaller clumps, ensuring that each division contains roots and a section of the stem. Transplant the divisions into a well-draining soil mix, watering the soil immediately and keeping it consistently moist, preferably in a partly shaded area until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata
Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata, commonly known as the Hilo marsh endemic beggarticks, is a plant species that is native to Hawaii. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is known for its yellow flowers and sharply pointed leaves.
Common diseases that may affect Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata
Like all living organisms, Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata is susceptible to various diseases. Some of the most common diseases that may affect this particular plant species include:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can cause the plant's roots to decay and may eventually lead to death. Root rot thrives in damp soil, so it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant's soil has proper drainage.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew from affecting Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata, it is important to keep the plant's leaves dry and avoid overcrowding.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease appears as brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove any affected leaves as soon as possible and ensure that the plant has proper ventilation.
Common pests that may affect Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata
Aside from diseases, Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata is also susceptible to pest infestations. Some of the most common pests that may affect this particular plant species include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause damage to the plant's leaves and stems by sucking the sap from them. To manage an aphid infestation, it is important to wash the plant regularly with soapy water and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids can cause the plant's leaves to turn yellow and dry up. To manage a spider mite infestation, it is important to increase the humidity around the plant and introduce natural predators like predatory mites or lacewings
- Caterpillars: These larvae can cause severe damage to the plant's leaves by eating them. To manage a caterpillar infestation, it is important to manually remove them from the plant or introduce natural predators like birds or parasitic wasps.
By taking proactive measures to manage disease and pest infestations, it is possible to keep Bidens asymmetrica var. subocculata healthy and thriving.
