Overview
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff is a species of flowering plant in the aster family, Asteraceae. It is native to Hawaii, specifically found on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu. The plant is commonly known as Forbes' beggarticks.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 30 inches tall and has thin, wiry stems. The leaves are green and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are small and yellow in color, with each flower measuring about 1 inch wide. The plant produces small, barbed seeds which can easily stick to clothing and animal fur.
Uses
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive yellow flowers. Additionally, the plant has been known to have medicinal properties and is sometimes used as a natural remedy for various ailments in traditional Hawaiian medicine. However, it should be noted that the plant can cause contact dermatitis in some individuals due to its barbed seeds sticking to the skin.
Cultivation
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana can be grown as an annual plant in areas with temperate climates, but it prefers warm and humid conditions. The plant does best in well-draining soils and requires adequate watering to thrive. Propagation is typically done through seeds, which should be sown in the early spring after the last frost date.
Conservation Status
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The plant is threatened by habitat destruction caused by urbanization and agriculture, as well as by introduced species that compete with it for resources. Conservation efforts are focused on maintaining and restoring the natural habitats where the plant occurs.
Light Requirements
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate a high amount of light but may struggle if placed in dense shade. Placing the plant in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 60-85°F (15.5-29.4°C). It cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures and should be protected from cold winds. A consistent temperature is important for the growth and health of Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana.
Soil Requirements
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be acidic to slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 5.5-6.5. This plant is adaptable to a range of soil types, including sandy loam, rocky soil, and clay soils. Adequate soil moisture is essential, so it should be watered regularly and not allowed to dry out completely.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff prefers to be grown in full sun to partial shade and in well-drained soil. It thrives best in humid conditions but can tolerate some dryness. This plant is a low-maintenance perennial that grows well in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Watering Needs
Watering Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff depends on the humidity and the soil it is planted in. It needs consistent watering but should not be overwatered to prevent root rot. It is essential to water the plant's roots and not the foliage to prevent diseases such as powdery mildew.
Fertilization
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff is a light feeder and does not require much fertilization. You can feed the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Be careful not to overfertilize, as it can cause excessive growth and reduce blooming.
Pruning
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff requires light pruning to maintain its shape and size. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before growth begins. Remove the dead and damaged stems and trim the tips of the remaining stems to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana
Bidens mauiensis var. forbesiana, commonly known as Maui beggarticks, is a perennial herbaceous plant that is endemic to Hawaii. Propagation of this plant can be done through seed germination or vegetative propagation.
Seed Germination
The best time to collect seeds from Maui beggarticks is during the months of May to September. The seeds are small and should be sown directly onto moist soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge, which can take anywhere from one to three weeks. The seedlings can then be transplanted to their desired location once they have a few sets of true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Maui beggarticks can also be propagated through stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings should be taken during the growing season, typically in early summer. Cuttings should be taken from the newer growth, and the leaves should be trimmed back to reduce water loss. Cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Division can be done by digging up the entire plant, separating the root ball into sections, and replanting each section into its own pot or location in the garden.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to keep the soil moist and provide adequate sunlight for healthy growth. Once established, Maui beggarticks is a low-maintenance plant that requires little to no fertilizer or additional care.
Disease Management
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff is relatively disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some common diseases and tips for managing them:
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by fungal pathogens and is a common problem in plants that are overwatered or have poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure the plant is not sitting in water and is planted in well-draining soil. Additionally, avoid overwatering and watering at the base of the plant instead of on the leaves. If you suspect root rot, remove the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that causes small, circular spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and discard them. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and keep the leaves as dry as possible. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff is relatively pest-resistant as well, but there are still a few pests that can cause damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and tips for managing them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap out of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a steady stream of water to dislodge them, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings can also help control aphids.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They cause distorted growth and can spread viruses. To manage thrips, remove any damaged leaves or flowers and discard them. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help control thrips.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help keep your Bidens mauiensis (Gray) Sherff var. forbesiana Sherff healthy and thriving.
