Introduction
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff, commonly known as Quilombo Bur Marigold, is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is a well-known medicinal herb in South America, especially in Brazil and Argentina, where it is native. The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, inflammation, and pain.General Appearance
The plant is a small herbaceous perennial that grows up to 60 centimeters tall. The leaves of the plant are pinnately divided and serrated, and they are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are yellow, with a diameter of up to 3 centimeters, and they bloom in spring and summer. The plant produces numerous achenes that are black and hooked at the tip.Origin
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff is native to South America, where it is found in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay. The plant grows in open areas and disturbed habitats, such as pastures, roadsides, and riverbanks.Common Names
In addition to Quilombo Bur Marigold, Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff has several other common names in different regions. In Argentina, it is known as Chiriguano, while in Brazil, it is called Macela-do-brejo.Uses
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff has significant pharmacological properties that have been attributed to its high content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. The plant is commonly used to treat rheumatism, coughs, colds, fever, headaches, and toothaches in traditional medicine. Additionally, the plant's extracts have been tested in vitro for its cytotoxicity towards cancer cells, showing promising results for further research.Light Requirements
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff thrives best in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight for healthy growth, especially during its blooming period. Inadequate exposure to sunlight can reduce the quality and quantity of flowers produced.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff grows well in warm temperatures. It can withstand a minimum temperature of 10 °F (-12°C) and a maximum temperature of 95 °F (35 °C). The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 68 to 82 °F (20 to 28 °C).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.8. It requires moist, fertile, and nutrient-rich soil. The soil should have adequate organic matter, and it should be amended with organic compost or manure before planting. Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff can grow in both sandy and clayey soils but can benefit from additional nutrients in the former.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff is a hardy perennial plant that can be grown in a range of different soils. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 4.5-7.5. The plant needs full sun exposure to grow successfully. It can be propagated through seed or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff requires moderate watering during its growing period. It prefers moist soil, but care must be taken not to overwater the plant, as waterlogging can cause root rot. During the dry season, the plant may need additional watering to remain healthy.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be added to the soil every 2-3 months during the growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or aged manure, can also be added around the base of the plant. Care must be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Dead or damaged stems and leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can also be pruned after blooming to encourage a second flush of flowers.
Propagation of Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff, commonly known as Culebra Island beggarticks, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. Here are some methods for propagating this plant:
Seed propagation
The most common method for propagating this plant is by seed. The seeds of Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff are small and light, and they can easily be dispersed by the wind. The seeds can be collected from mature flower heads and sown in seed trays or directly in the ground. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring, after the last frost date.
The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, and they should be covered lightly with soil. They need to be watered regularly, but care must be taken not to overwater them. The seeds usually germinate within two to three weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a size of about 2 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Cutting propagation
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff can also be propagated by stem cuttings. This method is best used for plants that have become leggy or during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from the terminal end of healthy stems, and they should be about 4 to 6 inches in length.
The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept humid by placing a clear plastic bag over them. The cuttings should be watered regularly, and care should be taken to ensure that the soil does not dry out. The cuttings usually root within two to three weeks. Once the roots have developed, the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff is generally a healthy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can still get infected by various diseases. The following are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are caused by fungal pathogens. The symptoms include circular to irregular spots on the leaves, and they can turn brown or yellow as the disease progresses. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides according to instructions.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi, and it is more common in poorly drained soils and overwatered plants. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves and wilting. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Bidens diversa Sherff var. quilembana Sherff can also be affected by pests. The following are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plants, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, hose them off with water, use insecticidal soaps, or apply insecticides according to instructions.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, remove the infected leaves, and apply insecticidal soap or pesticides according to instructions.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, moth-like insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage whiteflies, remove the infected leaves, increase humidity around the plant, and apply insecticidal soap or pesticides according to instructions.
