Overview
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family, Asteraceae. It is also known by the common names of swamp beggar-ticks, devil's beggarticks, and swamp marigold.
Origin and Distribution
Bidens connata var. pinnata is native to the eastern and central regions of North America, from Alberta and Quebec south to Florida and Texas. It is commonly found growing in damp habitats, such as stream banks, marshes, and swamps.
Appearance
The plant typically grows to a height of 1-4 feet (30-120 cm) and spreads by rhizomes to form clonal colonies. The leaves are opposite, pinnately compound, and typically have three to five leaflets. The flowers are produced in late summer and early fall, and are bright yellow in color. The flower heads are small and arranged in loose, open clusters at the tips of the stems. The seeds are enclosed in small burrs, which are covered in hooked bristles that make them easily dispersed by passing animals or humans.
Uses
In traditional medicine, Bidens connata var. pinnata has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, digestive problems, and menstrual cramps. The plant has also been used as a natural dye, producing yellow and green colors. Additionally, the plant is an important food source for a variety of wildlife, including birds and mammals.
Overall, Bidens connata var. pinnata is a hardy and adaptable plant that plays an important ecological role in wetland ecosystems and has a long history of use in traditional medicine and cultural practices.Growth Conditions for Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats.
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. commonly known as gum plant, is a flowering herbaceous plant that is native to North America. It is found in the prairies, meadows, and along the banks of streams and rivers. Here are the typical growth conditions required for the optimal growth of Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats.
Light requirements
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. prefers full sunlight and is a sun-loving plant. It can tolerate partial shade but may not grow as well as in full sun. Therefore, it is recommended to grow gum plant in a location where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 3-9, which means it can grow in areas with an average minimum temperature of -40°F to 20°F (-40°C to -7°C). However, gum plant prefers moderate temperatures around 70-85°F (21-29°C) during the day and 50-70°F (10-21°C) at night.
Soil requirements
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. can grow in a wide range of soils but prefers moist, well-drained, and fertile soils. It can tolerate sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils with a pH range of around 5.5 to 7.5. However, the soil should not be waterlogged, as gum plant is susceptible to root rot.
In conclusion, gum plant requires full sunlight, moderate temperatures, and moist, well-drained, and fertile soils for optimal growth. By providing these ideal growth conditions, gardeners can enjoy the beauty of Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. in their gardens or landscapes.
Cultivation
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. is native to wetlands and marshes throughout North America, making it an ideal plant for areas with moderate to high levels of moisture. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils.
For best results, sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring or late fall. The seeds should be planted 1/8 inch deep and spaced about six inches apart to allow enough room for growth. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes one to three weeks.
Watering Needs
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. requires consistent moisture, but it should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Depending on the climate and rainfall, it may require additional watering during periods of drought.
Fertilization
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. does not typically require fertilizer, as it is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils. However, if desired, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the early spring to promote healthy growth.
Pruning
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can promote additional blooms. Prune any damaged or diseased stems as needed. In the fall, after the plant has finished blooming, it can be cut back to ground level to prepare for the following growing season.
Propagation of Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats.
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats., commonly known as swamp marigold or devil's beggarticks, is a native perennial wildflower found in the eastern and central regions of North America, from Canada to Texas. The plant produces abundant yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. It can grow up to three feet tall and has a sprawling, bushy growth habit. Propagation of this plant can be done using various methods such as seeds, cuttings, or division of root clumps.
Propagation by seeds:
Seeds can be collected from the dried flowers of the plant. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil in the fall or early spring. The seeds should be sown about 1/8 inch deep and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge, which may take up to two weeks.
Propagation by cuttings:
Cuttings can be taken from the stem tips of the plant in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about four inches long and should be taken from healthy, non-flowering shoots. After removing the bottom leaves, the cuttings can be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, bright spot. The cuttings will root within a few weeks.
Propagation by division:
The plant can be propagated by dividing the root clumps in the fall or early spring. The clumps can be dug out of the ground and separated into smaller pieces using a sharp knife or shovel. Each division should have several shoots and a good root system. The divisions can be replanted in the desired location and watered well.
In conclusion, propagating Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. can be done using various methods such as seeds, cuttings, or division of root clumps. With proper care and attention, the plant can be easily propagated and can bring its beautiful yellow blooms to your garden or landscape.
Disease Management
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. may be subject to several diseases that can damage or kill the plant. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Root rot: This fungal disease can develop in overly wet soil and destroy the plant's roots, leading to wilted leaves, stunted growth, and death. To manage it, avoid overwatering and plant in well-draining soil. If it's too late, remove affected plants and do not replant in the same spot.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease presents as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems, causing them to curl and distort. To prevent it, increase air circulation by spacing the plants properly. If powdery mildew appears, remove the affected parts and apply a fungicide labeled for use on edible plants.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause circular brown or black spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced yields. To manage it, remove affected leaves and apply a fungicide according to the label instructions.
Pest Management
Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. var. pinnata S. Wats. may also attract several pests that can harm the plant. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cause leaves to yellow, curl, and die. To manage them, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or insecticidal soap.
- Cabbage loopers: These green caterpillars can eat through leaves, causing holes and skeletonizing. To manage them, spray the plant with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural insecticide, or pick them off by hand.
- Spider mites: These tiny, red or yellow insects can cause leaves to turn yellow and die. To manage them, increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly or placing a tray of water nearby. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
