Overview
Bidens crataegifolia (O.Hoffm.) Sherff, commonly known as hawthorn-leaf beggarticks, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a well-known plant that is widely distribution across many regions of the world.
Appearance
Bidens crataegifolia is an annual or a short-lived perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 meter tall. The stems are thin, sharply quadrangular, and usually red-tinged. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and have pinnately lobed to toothed edges that resemble the leaves of hawthorn plants (hence its common name). The leaves are ovate to oblong and can grow up to 8 cm long.
The flowers of Bidens crataegifolia are bright yellow and typically measure 7-10 mm in diameter. The plant blooms from July through October and forms a compact head of small flowers that resemble a button. The fruit is small, oblong, with two to four barbed seeds that can stick to clothing or fur.
Origin and Distribution
Bidens crataegifolia originates from North Africa, Europe, and Asia. It has been naturalized in many other parts of the world, including North and South America, Australia, and other Pacific Islands. Hawthorn-leaf beggarticks can grow in a range of habitats, including waste places, roadsides, and cultivated fields.
Uses
Bidens crataegifolia is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and pain relief. The leaves of this plant have been used to make a tea that is said to be effective in treating colds and flu-like symptoms. The plant is also a natural source of antioxidants and phytochemicals that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.
In some parts of the world, the plant is considered a weed due to its ability to spread rapidly and reduce crop yields. However, there are also reports of the plant being used as a green manure for soil improvement. Some people use the plant for ornamental purposes due to its bright yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
Bidens crataegifolia (O.Hoffm.) Sherff requires full sun to partially shaded conditions for optimum growth. It needs at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day, but too much sun exposure may damage the plant. In low light conditions, the plant may grow tall and spindly with dead leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C but grows best at temperatures between 18°C to 24°C. It can survive frost conditions of up to -5°C, but during winter, it goes dormant if the temperature drops below 10°C. High-temperature stress can cause wilting, leaf yellowing and ultimately death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bidens crataegifolia (O.Hoffm.) Sherff grows well in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including, sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but prefers fertile soils that retain moisture. The soil should have good drainage, as waterlogged soils can cause root rot. Adding organic compost to the soil can enhance soil fertility.
Cultivation methods for Bidens crataegifolia
Bidens crataegifolia can be cultivated in both containers and garden beds. It requires well-draining soil, a sunny location and can grow in a wide range of temperatures.
The plant prefers a pH range of 6.1 to 7.8. It is best grown from seed and should be sown in the spring, after the last frost. The seeds should be sown on the surface of the soil and gently pressed in for better contact.
It is important to keep the soil moist until the seedlings have become established. Once the plants are established, they are drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions.
Watering needs for Bidens crataegifolia
Bidens crataegifolia requires moderate watering. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Over-watering can lead to root rot and yellowing of the leaves.
During prolonged periods of drought, the plant may require additional watering. It is essential to water the plant at the base and avoid wetting the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Bidens crataegifolia
Bidens crataegifolia requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and it is important to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to weak, spindly growth.
Fertilizer should be applied once per month during the growing season and discontinued before winter. Adding organic matter to the soil will also help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Pruning for Bidens crataegifolia
Bidens crataegifolia does not require significant pruning. Deadheading faded flowers will promote additional blooming and prevent reseeding. Pinching back tips of young plants can also promote bushier growth and more abundant flowering.
Avoid cutting back more than a third of the plant's height, as this can lead to reduced flowering and overall plant health.
It is important to monitor the plant for signs of insect or disease infestation and act quickly to prevent the spread of pests or disease.
Propagation of Bidens crataegifolia (O.Hoffm.) Sherff
Bidens crataegifolia (O.Hoffm.) Sherff, commonly referred to as hawthornleaf beggarticks, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters.
Propagation by Seeds
Bidens crataegifolia can be propagated by seeds, which are readily available from online retailers or harvested from mature plants. It is recommended to sow the seeds indoors in early spring, using a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with 1/4 inch of soil and keep them consistently moist until germination occurs, which typically takes 7-14 days.
Once the seedlings have reached a height of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the garden bed. When transplanting, make sure to space them at least 12 inches apart to allow for optimal growth and development.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens crataegifolia can also be propagated by cuttings, although this method can be more challenging. Take a 6-8 inch stem cutting from a mature plant in the spring or early summer and remove all the leaves except for the top 2-3. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the cutting in a location with bright, indirect light.
After a few weeks, check for new growth to confirm that the cutting has rooted. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the garden bed.
Disease Management
Bidens crataegifolia is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it may still be vulnerable to a few fungal and bacterial diseases that can impact the overall health and yield of the plant. Common diseases that may affect Bidens crataegifolia include:
- Powdery Mildew: This disease appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It reduces photosynthesis, causing abnormal growth, and may lead to eventual rotting of plant tissues. Proper air circulation, adequate hydration, and fungicidal sprays can help to manage the spread of powdery mildew.
- Leaf Spot: This disease occurs as small, circular, black spots on the leaves of the plant. It spreads rapidly, causing yellowing, wilting, and loss of leaves. Remove infected leaves, maintain adequate soil drainage, and apply fungicidal sprays to prevent further infection by leaf spot.
To manage these diseases, maintain good hygiene by cleaning up fallen leaves and debris around the plant. Promote good air circulation by avoiding overcrowding of plants and maintain adequate hydration by watering around the roots of the plant as opposed to watering the leaves. Applying fungicidal sprays with zinc or sulfur can also help to prevent and control disease outbreaks.
Pest Management
Bidens crataegifolia is also vulnerable to pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and whiteflies that can cause damage to the plant. Pest management can involve:
- Handpicking: Physically removing the pests by hand and disposing of them offsite can be an effective way to control pest populations.
- Biological control: Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to the environment can help to manage pest populations.
- Chemical control: Application of insecticidal soaps or pesticides can also help to control pest populations. However, careful consideration must be given to the impact of pesticides on the environment and human health.
Regular monitoring of the plant is necessary to detect early signs of pest infestation, which helps in prompt pest management. Pest control should focus on minimizing risks to pollinators such as bees and butterflies and maximizing the benefits of natural pest control measures such as biological control.
