Overview
Bidens cylindrica Sherff, also known as spaghetti marsh-marigold, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a native species of North America and can be found in states including Texas, Oklahoma, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The plant is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. Its stems are erect, branching, and hollow. The leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and serrate. The flowers are bright yellow and can bloom from spring to autumn.Common Names
Bidens cylindrica Sherff is commonly known as spaghetti marsh-marigold, hairy beggarticks, devil's-pitchfork, and dock-cress. Its common names are attributed to its spaghetti-like seeds that are formed after flowering.Uses
Bidens cylindrica Sherff has several medicinal uses. The leaves and stems of the plant are used to treat a range of illnesses, including coughs, colds, and flu. The roots of the plant have been used to treat toothaches and relieve pain. Additionally, the leaves and seeds of Bidens cylindrica Sherff are used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections and inflammation. The plant also has some culinary uses. The seeds can be used in salads or cooked like grains. The seeds' flavor resembles that of sunflower seeds or pine nuts.General Appearance
Bidens cylindrica Sherff is a perennial herbaceous plant that grows up to 1 m tall. Its stems are erect, branching, and hollow. The leaves are opposite, and each blade is lanceolate, serrate, and broadening toward the base. The bright yellow flowers appear at the top of the stem and can bloom from spring through fall. The flowers are followed by brown seed-like fruits with awns that are long and cylindrical, resembling spaghetti.Light Requirements
Bidens cylindrica Sherff typically prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, although this may result in weaker growth and smaller flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and prefers warm temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F) for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate frost and will die if exposed to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) for prolonged periods.
Soil Requirements
Bidens cylindrica Sherff can grow in a wide range of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.8-7.2). It can also grow in soils with low fertility, although adding organic matter can help improve plant growth. However, the plant cannot grow in waterlogged soils and requires good drainage to prevent root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens cylindrica Sherff, commonly known as "marsh beggar-tick," is a hardy plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It grows best in soil that is moist, fertile, and well-drained. The plant can be easily propagated from seeds or cuttings.
It is best to plant the seeds or cuttings in the spring when the weather is warm. The seeds should be planted about 1/4 inch deep in the soil, and the cuttings should be planted at a depth that covers the root ball completely.
Bidens cylindrica Sherff prefers full sun or partial shade. If the plant is grown in partial shade, it should be protected from strong winds that can damage the stems and leaves.
Watering Needs
Bidens cylindrica Sherff requires consistent moisture in the soil to thrive. The plants should be watered regularly, especially during periods of dry weather or drought. It is important not to over-water the plants, as too much water can lead to root rot.
It is recommended to water the plants early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as watering during the peak sun hours can cause the water droplets to magnify the sunlight and burn the leaves.
Fertilization
Bidens cylindrica Sherff benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is recommended to fertilize the plants once a month during the growing season.
The fertilizer should be applied according to the instructions on the label, and care should be taken not to apply too much fertilizer, as this can lead to the burning of the plants.
Pruning
Bidens cylindrica Sherff does not require much pruning, but it can benefit from occasional deadheading. Deadheading is the process of removing the spent flowers from the plant to encourage new growth and improve the appearance of the plant.
The plant should also be trimmed back in the fall to prepare it for the winter months. The dead or damaged foliage and stems should be removed, and the plant should be cut back to a more manageable height.
Propagation of Bidens Cylindrica Sherff
Bidens cylindrica Sherff can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Bidens cylindrica Sherff can be sown directly into well-draining soil or started indoors in early spring. The seeds should be placed just below the surface of the soil and lightly covered. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge, which typically takes 7-14 days. Once the seedlings have grown their second set of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into a garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens cylindrica Sherff can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 3-4 inches long and taken from the tips of healthy and disease-free plants. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid location until new growth appears, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. Once new growth appears, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into a garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens cylindrica Sherff
Bidens cylindrica Sherff, commonly known as marsh beggarticks, is a native plant to North America. Although it is generally a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to some diseases and pests. In this section, we will discuss the most common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Bidens cylindrica Sherff is not particularly susceptible to diseases, but it is still important to look out for any signs of infection. The following are some of the most common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Septoria leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular brown spots with grey centers to appear on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Apply fungicide if necessary.
- Pythium root rot: This disease causes the roots of the plant to turn brown and die. It is usually caused by overwatering. To manage this disease, reduce watering and ensure proper drainage.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing a white powdery substance to appear. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and apply fungicide if necessary.
Common Pests
Like many plants, Bidens cylindrica Sherff is also susceptible to pests. The following are some of the most common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can cause the leaves of the plant to curl and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These insects can eat away at the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
- Spider mites: These pests are too small to be seen with the naked eye and can cause the leaves of the plant to turn yellow or brown. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water or use a miticide.
By keeping an eye out for signs of infection and infestation, and by taking the necessary steps to manage them, you can ensure that your Bidens cylindrica Sherff plant stays healthy and happy.
