Origin and Common Names
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as Elgon Bidens, belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is endemic to Eastern Africa, specifically found in Kenya and Uganda. It derives its name from Mount Elgon and the Cherangani Hills, where it predominantly grows.
General Appearance
Elgon Bidens is a perennial herb that reaches up to 2 meters in height. The plant has several branches and is covered with glandular hairs. The leaves are simple, alternate, and saw-toothed. They are dark green in color and measure 5-17 cm in length. The plant produces yellow flowers that are 2-2.5 cm wide and almost look like daisies.
Uses
Several African communities use different parts of the Elgon Bidens plant for medicinal purposes. The roots are commonly used as a traditional remedy for a variety of illnesses, including diarrhea, malaria, and gastrointestinal problems. The leaves are also used to treat different skin conditions such as eczema, wounds, and boils.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Elgon Bidens is also used as a food source by some communities in Kenya. The young leaves and tender stems are cooked and consumed as a traditional vegetable. The plant is also used as a green manure in crop production, helping to improve soil fertility.
Growth Conditions for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis is an herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 80cm tall. It is indigenous to Kenya and is commonly found in Cherangani Hills in tropical montane forests, at elevations ranging from 2500m to 3500m.
Light Requirements
Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis thrives in moderate to full sunlight. Thus, it requires an area with enough exposure to sunlight. However, it can also tolerate partial shade provided that it gets at least 4-6 hours of sunlight exposure daily.
Temperature
Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis typically grows in cooler conditions, so the ideal temperatures can range from 10°C to 23°C. Nevertheless, the plant can tolerate warmer temperatures, but not more than 32°C. Furthermore, Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis requires cool nights with low humidity levels in order to grow properly.
Soil Requirements
Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 and a medium texture. The plant requires moist soils with proper drainage to prevent waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. When planting Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis, it's important to ensure adequate compost and other organic matter to maintain the moisture level in the soil.
In conclusion, providing ample sunlight exposure, moderate temperatures, and adequate soil moisture with proper drainage is crucial in ensuring the proper growth and development of Bidens elgonensis subsp. cheranganiensis.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as the Cherangani Beggarticks, is a herbaceous plant that grows naturally in rocky areas and grassy slopes. To cultivate this plant, it requires full sun exposure or partial shade and well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers neutral to alkaline soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
The ideal time to plant Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner is in early spring, just before the growing season begins. To plant, dig holes that are slightly larger than the root balls of the seedlings and space the plants at least 15-30 cm apart to avoid overcrowding. Water the plants immediately after planting and ensure the soil stays moist until the plants establish themselves.
Watering Needs for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner requires regular watering to thrive. However, overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring the water reaches the roots. During the dry seasons, increase watering frequency to twice or thrice weekly but reduce waterings in the rainy season.
Fertilization for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
As a natural grassland plant capable of thriving in nutrient-poor soils, Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner does not need fertilization. However, adding slow-release organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil will help improve soil health and, in turn, the plant's growth and quality of flowers.
Pruning for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner requires little to no pruning. However, removing dead flowers and leaves and cutting back the plant after flowering will help maintain its shape, promote new growth, and increase the number of flowers produced.
Propagation of Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner can be collected when they are mature and fully developed. They can be sown in a nursery bed or in pots, filled with well-drained soil mixed with compost. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and watered immediately.
The best time to plant the seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season in the spring, when the temperatures are warm, and the soil is moist. The seeds will germinate within 7-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted when they are about 10-15 cm tall and have developed a good root system.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner can be propagated by cuttings as well. The cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood stems, about 10-15 cm long, and should have at least four healthy leaves.
The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone for better results. The cuttings can be planted in a pot filled with transplanting media, which is a mixture of equal parts of sand, perlite, and compost. The cuttings should be watered immediately and kept in a warm, bright, and humid place.
Rooting will occur in about 3-4 weeks, and the new plants can be transplanted into a bigger pot or the garden bed when they have developed a good root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner is a plant species found in East Africa. This plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests, which can cause severe damage if left unmanaged. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the common diseases and pests affecting the plant and the best ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Bidens elgonensis is the powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease is characterized by a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicide application can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that affects Bidens elgonensis is the leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora bidens. This disease is characterized by small, circular spots on the leaves, which may enlarge and turn brownish. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide application can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
One of the common pests that affect Bidens elgonensis is the aphids, small insects that suck the sap of the plant. The infested plant parts may curl, and the leaves may turn yellow or distorted. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can help control their population.
Another pest that affects Bidens elgonensis is the spider mites, which are tiny arachnids that feed on the undersides of the leaves. The infested leaves may appear yellowish or bronzed, and the plant may become stunted. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introducing predatory mites or ladybugs can also help control the population of spider mites.
By understanding and implementing proper disease and pest management strategies, you can maintain the health and productivity of your Bidens elgonensis (Sherff) Agnew subsp. cheranganiensis T.G.J.Rayner plants.
