Origin
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff, also known as the Congo River Bur Marigold, is a plant species that is indigenous to Central Africa. It can be found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant species Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff is commonly known as the Congo River Bur Marigold due to its habitat in the Congo River basin.
Uses
The leaves and roots of Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff are traditionally used in African medicine for the treatment of malaria, gastrointestinal disorders, and respiratory infections. In addition, the plant is used in the construction of fishing nets due to its strong, fibrous stems.
General Appearance
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It typically grows up to 1.5 meters in height and has a compact and bushy habit. The leaves are dark green, elongated, and serrated, while the stems are rigid and covered with small spines. The flowers are double, with yellow petals surrounding a central brown disk.
Light Requirements
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade but flowering will be reduced if planted in deep shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight each day for healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, the ideal temperature for growth is between 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff can tolerate cool temperatures but will not survive frost. Protect the plant from frost and freezing temperatures by covering with a frost cloth or moving it indoors.
Soil Requirements
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff prefers well-draining soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils but will not grow well in highly acidic or highly alkaline soils. Mix in some organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff is a plant that requires full sun and well-drained soil. It is advisable to plant it in areas with a temperature range of 55 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant mainly grows in moist environments, and it's best to mulch around it to retain moisture. Planting this species using seeds or cuttings is suitable, but planting by seeds is the most preferred method. When planting, make sure that the soil is neutral to slightly acidic.
Watering Needs
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff is a plant that thrives in moist soils. It will require frequent watering during the early stage of growth to establish a deep and extensive root system. However, after maturity, you will need to regulate your watering, watering it only after the soil has dried out. Prevent the soil from waterlogging as this will cause the roots to rot. Always remember to water the plant in the morning to let it dry out in the sun throughout the day.
Fertilization
When growing Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff, it is essential to fertilize frequently to ensure a healthy and vibrant plant. Use a general-purpose fertilizer when planting, and during the growing season, use an organic, nitrogen-rich fertilizer every two to three weeks. Do not over-fertilize the plant as it may cause it to develop underdeveloped roots and damaged leaves. Also, avoid letting the fertilizer touch the stems and leaves as it may cause chemical burns to the plant.
Pruning
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff does not require extensive pruning as it has a sturdy stem and does not grow as tall. However, light pruning on the tips of its branches can encourage bushier growth. Always use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts that do not damage the plant. Prune away any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers. By pruning correctly, it can help control the plant's size and shape.
Propagation of Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff, also known as the armed swamp marigold, is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to East Africa and can grow up to 3 meters tall. Propagation methods for this plant can differ depending on the desired outcome.
Propagation from seeds
One of the most common methods to propagate Bidens kivuensis is from seeds. Collect ripe seeds from the plant in the late summer or autumn when the flower heads turn brown and dry. Sow the seeds in a prepared propagator tray with seed compost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost and gently keep the compost moist. Seedlings typically emerge within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation through division
Bidens kivuensis can also propagate through division. In the spring, once the plant reaches maturity, it can be divided into smaller sections by carefully dividing the roots with a sharp, sterile knife. Try to keep at least one shoot per section and replant in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Propagation through cuttings
Another propagation method is through stem cuttings. Take 4-6 inch cuttings from the plant's stem, ensuring that there are at least two leaves per cutting. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the cuttings' ends in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a pot filled with compost, and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm, well-lit location but out of direct sunlight. Water as needed, and roots should start to form in 2-3 weeks.
Disease Management
Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff is susceptible to a range of fungal diseases, including powdery mildew and botrytis blight. These diseases can cause severe damage and, in some cases, plant death if left unmanaged.
To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the foliage dry by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation. If powdery mildew appears, it can be treated with a fungicide labeled for use on ornamental plants. To prevent botrytis blight, remove any dead or dying plant tissue promptly and avoid overcrowding plants.
Pest Management
The most common pests that affect Bidens kivuensis Sherff var. armata Sherff are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage and sucking sap from the leaves.
To manage aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, regularly inspect the plants for signs of infestation, such as sticky residue or yellowing leaves. Insecticidal soaps or oils labeled for use on ornamental plants can be used to control these pests. Be sure to follow label instructions carefully.
It is important to note that using pesticides can harm beneficial insects that help control pest populations, such as ladybugs and lacewings. To minimize harm to these beneficial insects, consider using cultural practices such as crop rotation and companion planting to manage pest populations.
