Overview
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff, commonly known as Spanish needles, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America and is found in many parts of the United States and Mexico.
General Appearance
The Spanish needles plant is an annual herb that can grow to a height of up to 5 feet. The leaves of this plant are deeply divided and pinnately compound, with toothed edges. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with yellow petals and numerous small, needle-like bristles that surround the central disk.
Common Names
In addition to Spanish needles, Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff is also known by a variety of other common names, including two-leaf bidens, fern-leaved beggar-tick, and devil's pitchfork.
Uses
Spanish needles have a number of medicinal uses and are traditionally used in many parts of the world to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and respiratory problems. The plant contains compounds that are believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Spanish needles are also used as a dye for fabric. The plant contains a yellow dye that has been used to color textiles for centuries.
It is important to note, however, that Spanish needles can also be a nuisance in certain environments. The plant is considered a weed in many parts of the world and can be invasive in some areas, particularly in moist, disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Light Conditions
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff thrives well under full sunlight exposure. The plant requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to support photosynthesis and to promote healthy growth. Inadequate sunlight can result in stunted growth and poor flowering or fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety is native to areas in North America with varying climatic conditions, ranging from temperate to subtropical regions. Ideal temperature ranges for growth are between 20 to 30°Celsius. Temperatures below 10°Celsius result in slow growth, while temperatures above 35°Celsius can cause heat stress, leading to leaf withering or even death.
Soil Conditions
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff grows well in moist, well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 7 is suitable for growth. The plant is capable of tolerating slightly acidic soils, but excessively acidic soil can limit its growth potential. Similarly, waterlogged soils can lead to root rot and eventual death of the plant.
Cultivation of Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff, commonly known as Spanish needles, is a tough, hardy plant that thrives in almost any soil or condition. It is native to North America and is found in fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is an easy-to-grow plant that requires low maintenance and tolerates drought, heat, and poor soil conditions.
The best time to plant Spanish needles is in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed. It can also be planted in the autumn, but only in areas where the winters are mild. The plant should be grown in a location that receives full sun or partial shade. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and spreads to about 2 feet wide.
Watering Needs of Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff
Spanish needles are drought-tolerant plants that require minimal watering. In fact, too much watering can cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases. The plant should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch.
The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions. In general, the plant should be watered once or twice a week during the first few weeks, until it establishes a strong root system. After that, it can be watered once or twice a month, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilization of Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff
Spanish needles do not require fertilizer, but they can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring, before new growth emerges. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can cause rapid growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning of Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff
Spanish needles do not require pruning, but deadheading can promote more blooms and extend the flowering period. The plant should be deadheaded regularly throughout the growing season, by removing the spent flowers as soon as they wilt. This will encourage the plant to produce more blooms and prevent it from going to seed too early.
Propagation of Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff is mostly propagated by seeds. The species produces numerous small achenes that are about 2.5 mm and are relatively easy to harvest.
Seed Collection
The seed collection should be timed perfectly to achieve optimal results. The seeds are ready to be harvested when the heads begin to dry out and turn brown. It's important to keep a close eye on the seed heads as they mature, as the seeds are likely to fall off if they're not collected promptly.
Seed Treatment
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff seeds usually do not require any special treatment before planting. The seeds are dispersed by wind or water, and some will germinate immediately. Others may lie dormant in the soil for several years, which is why some gardeners may choose to stratify the seed before planting.
Stratification
To stratify the seeds, place them in a plastic bag or container with damp soil or vermiculite. Keep the container at 40°F to 50°F for approximately two to three months, then remove the container from the cool place and bring it to room temperature before planting. This will help to break the dormancy of the seeds and encourage even germination.
Planting
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff can be sown directly in the soil in the spring, or in early fall. The ideal soil temperature for germination of the seeds should be around 68°F. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and the plants should be spaced about 18 inches apart.
It's important to keep the soil consistently moist during the germination process, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to the development of fungus.
Disease Management
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant if not managed properly. The most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powdery growth on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, you can apply a fungicide or use cultural practices such as proper spacing between plants, removing infected parts, providing adequate ventilation, and avoiding overhead watering to reduce humidity.
- Leaf spot: This disease causes circular or angular spots on leaves that may develop yellow or brown margins. To manage leaf spot, you can remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply a fungicide early in the growing season.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi that attack the plant roots, leading to stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage root rot, you can avoid overwatering the plant, provide well-draining soil, and use fungicidal drenches or soil amendments.
Pest Management
Bidens bipinnata L. var. biternatoides Sherff is also vulnerable to different pests, such as:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing, wilting, and distortion. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
- Spider mites: These pests are common in hot and dry conditions and cause webbing, stippling, and yellowing of leaves. To manage spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce predatory mites. You can also increase humidity and regularly spray the plant with water to deter mites.
- Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on young seedlings, cutting them at the base and causing wilting and death. To manage cutworms, you can use biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or apply a granular insecticide around the base of the plant.
Regular monitoring and early detection of diseases and pests are crucial to effective management. Cultural practices such as crop rotation, proper sanitation, and maintaining a healthy growing environment can also help prevent outbreaks. Additionally, you can consult with your local extension office or a professional for tailored management strategies.
