Overview
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. is a plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the Hairy-fruited Beggartick or Campylotheca Beggar-Tick.Origin
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. is native to Africa's tropical regions in countries like Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania.Appearance
The plant usually grows up to a height of 150 cm and produces compound leaves with elliptic to narrowly oval leaflets. Its flowers form loosely arranged heads, each consisting of yellow or orange disk florets. The plant fruit is characterized by its hairy nature, which aids in seed dispersal.Uses
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. has several medicinal properties and has been used traditionally to treat various illnesses such as stomach infections, diarrhea, fever, and snake bites. It is also used in the treatment of wounds due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, some cultures use the plant as a food spice and to prepare traditional herbal teas. Furthermore, the plant's seeds have been used as a coffee substitute as they contain a high level of caffeine. The leaves of Bidens campylotheca have also been used as green manure and animal fodder.Light Requirements
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. typically grows in areas with full sun exposure or partial shade. The plant should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day to ensure optimal growth and bloom.
Temperature Requirements
The Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. can grow in a variety of temperatures but prefers warm temperatures. The plant can grow in a range of temperatures between 50°F and 85°F. However, the ideal temperature for optimal growth is between 65°F and 75°F. Temperatures below 50°F or above 85°F can cause stunted growth or damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5 to ensure optimal growth. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy loam and clay loam soils. However, adding organic matter like compost can improve the soil's fertility, water holding capacity, and texture, providing an ideal environment for the plant to grow.
Cultivation
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. is a hardy plant that grows well in warm climates. It thrives best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings, with stem cuttings being the more effective method.
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with hot summers, it is best to provide partial shade. Ensure that the plant is sheltered from strong winds, which may break its stems. To prevent overcrowding, it is advisable to space each plant about 50 cm apart.
Watering Needs
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. requires regular watering but is tolerant of periodic drought. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, at all times to prevent the drying out of the roots.
During periods of intense heat or low humidity, it is advisable to water the plant more thoroughly to avoid wilting and dehydration. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening, avoiding the hottest part of the day.
Fertilization
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content is recommended. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
The plant should be fertilized once every two weeks or once a month, depending on the soil quality and climatic conditions. It is also advisable to apply a layer of compost or well-rotted manure around the base of the plant to help improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. requires minimal pruning. Deadheading, which involves removing spent flowers, helps encourage more blooms and prolongs the blooming period. Prune back any leggy or overly tall stems to promote bushy growth.
Any damaged or diseased stems should be removed as soon as possible to prevent infection from spreading to healthy parts of the plant. Pruning should be done in the late fall or early spring, preferably before new growth begins.
Propagation of Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip.
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip., also known as Hairy Beggarticks, is a herbaceous plant commonly found in marshes, swamps, and wet meadows. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through various methods such as seed germination, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Germination
Bidens campylotheca can be propagated by seeds. Fresh seeds should be collected when the plant has finished flowering and the seeds have fully matured. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or fall. The seeds will usually germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Division
Bidens campylotheca can also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the root ball of an established plant into smaller sections. The sections should have healthy roots and stems. Each section should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or fall.
Stem Cuttings
Bidens campylotheca can be propagated by stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from an established plant, preferably in the spring or early summer. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems that have not yet flowered. The cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. is generally resistant to many common plant diseases, but it may occasionally be afflicted by some fungal pathogens such as powdery mildew, downy mildew, and black spot. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on leaves, while downy mildew produces yellow patches on the upper surface of the leaves. Black spot creates black spots on the leaves, which grow until the leaf falls off.
To prevent such diseases, it is important to plant the Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. in well-drained soil, apply balanced fertilizer, and water it moderately. Always make sure to remove any fallen leaves and flowers from the soil, as they can harbor fungal pathogens. Fungicides can be used to prevent and control these diseases, but always follow the manufacturer's instructions for usage and safety precautions.
Pest Management
Bidens campylotheca Schultz-Bip. is typically not bothered by many pests, but some insects can potentially cause significant damage, such as spider mites, aphids, and thrips. Spider mites are tiny red or black pests that suck sap from the leaves, making them turn yellow and die. Aphids are small insects that also suck sap and excrete a sticky substance, which can cause distortion of leaves and serve as a breeding ground for fungus. Thrips are also small insects that feed on leaves and petals, causing discoloration and distortion.
To manage these pests, it is important to maintain healthy plants by providing sufficient water, nutrition, and sunlight. Keep a lookout for any infestations or visible sign of damage, and take prompt action to control them. This can be done by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are effective against a wide range of insect pests. Alternatively, natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to control and manage pests in an eco-friendly manner.
