Overview
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is commonly known as the Bamps' beggartick, after the collector who discovered the species, Dr. Georges Bamps. This plant is native to Madagascar, an island country off the coast of East Africa.
Appearance
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is a small plant that typically grows to a height of 30-40 cm. The plant has a bushy habit and produces small, yellow flowers. The leaves are pinnately divided and grow opposite each other. The stem is green, slender, and hairy.
Uses
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is not commonly used in traditional medicine or for culinary purposes. However, it is a valuable plant for botanical research and has potential as a decorative plant for gardens and parks. It is also important for conservation efforts in Madagascar, where the plant is considered endangered.
Light Requirements
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski requires full sun in order to grow and thrive. This means that it should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If the plant is grown in shade or partial shade, it may not produce as many flowers or grow as tall.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm to hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60°F and 85°F (15.5°C to 29.5°C). However, it can also tolerate temperatures below freezing for short periods of time as long as it is not exposed to frost.
Soil Requirements
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski prefers fertile, well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0). It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it grows best in loamy soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should also be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged, as too much water can cause root rot. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil can improve its overall quality and fertility.
Cultivation of Bidens bampsiana Lisowski
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is best grown in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5, although it can tolerate a slightly acidic pH. It requires full sun to partial shade to grow well. The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C and requires a minimum temperature of 18°C to thrive.
Watering Needs of Bidens bampsiana Lisowski
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top 1 to 2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch. Water the plant more often in hotter and drier weather conditions. However, ensure the soil is not waterlogged as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization of Bidens bampsiana Lisowski
Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season, which is normally from spring to autumn. Use a slow-release fertilizer to promote steady growth and prevent overfeeding. Do not apply fertilizer to dry soil as it can lead to root burn.
Pruning of Bidens bampsiana Lisowski
Pruning helps to maintain the shape of the plant and promote healthy growth. Bidens bampsiana Lisowski requires regular pruning by pinching or deadheading to promote bushy growth and encourage more blooming. Deadheading involves removing spent flowers to encourage the growth of new flowers. Pinching back the plant by cutting 1/3 of the stem promotes a compact plant and encourages more flowering.
Propagation of Bidens bampsiana Lisowski
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is a beautiful plant that can be propagated in a number of ways. Some of the common propagation methods are:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is through seeds. Collecting seeds from the parent plant in the late summer or early fall is the best way to acquire the seeds for propagation. The seeds require some specific conditions for germination. Sow the clean and dry seeds in a well-draining soil mix using a lightly shaded area or grow tent. Keep the soil moist and the temperature constant between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. The seeds germinate in two to three weeks, and you can transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they have grown two to three sets of leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is one of the rare plants that can be propagated through cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the summer or fall when the plant is actively growing. Locate healthy stems without any signs of disease or damage. Use a clean pair of scissors or pruning shears that you have disinfected with rubbing alcohol to take the cuttings. Cuttings from the tips of the plant stem are the best for propagation. Remove all leaves except for two or three from the top of the cutting, and place the cutting in the rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining soil and cover with plastic wrap to maintain humidity. Place the potted cutting in a bright, but indirect light location. You can transplant the rooted cuttings into individual pots once they have a well-established root system.
Division Propagation
Bidens bampsiana Lisowski can also be propagated through division. You may divide the parent plant when it has become overgrown and crowded. You can do this every two to three years. Be sure to water the plant the day before to reduce stress. Carefully loosen plant roots, taking care to not damage them severely. Divide the plant into two or more sections, replanting each section in the new pot using good quality soil. Keep them well-watered, and in partial shade until they become well established.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affects Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant. This can be achieved by spacing the plants properly and avoiding overcrowding. In addition, removing infected plant material and applying a fungicide can help to control powdery mildew.
Another common disease that affects Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is leaf spot. This is a fungal disease that appears as small, circular spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove infected plant material and dispose of it properly. In addition, applying a fungicide can help to control leaf spot.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that affects Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is aphids. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to monitor the plants regularly and remove any infested leaves. In addition, applying an insecticidal soap or neem oil can help to control aphids.
Another common pest that affects Bidens bampsiana Lisowski is spider mites. These tiny insects also feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant. This can be achieved by spacing the plants properly and avoiding overcrowding. In addition, applying a miticide can help to control spider mites.
