Overview:
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff, commonly known as the threadleaf bur-marigold, is a wildflower that is native to western North America. This plant is a member of the Asteraceae family, also known as the sunflower family, and is a valuable and beautiful addition to many natural plant communities.
Origin:
The threadleaf bur-marigold is native to western North America, specifically California, Oregon, and Washington. It prefers to grow in moist and sunny areas such as meadows, marshes, and along stream banks.
Common Names:
The threadleaf bur-marigold is also commonly known as the Menzies' stickleaf, needle-leaved beggarticks, and everlasting needle.
General Appearance:
The threadleaf bur-marigold is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 100cm tall. It has thread-like leaves that are arranged alternately along its stem and are up to 15cm long. The flowers are bright yellow and have a diameter of approximately 2cm. One plant can produce more than 100 small seeds, which are dispersed through the sticky burrs that give the plant its name.
Uses:
The threadleaf bur-marigold is an important plant for pollinators and provides food and habitat for various insects, including bees and butterflies. Historically, the plant has been used by Native Americans to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, headaches, and stomachaches. Today, the threadleaf bur-marigold is primarily used as an ornamental plant, and its beauty makes it a popular addition to gardens and natural landscapes.
Growth Conditions for Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff is commonly known as filiform bidens, and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is found growing in various habitats, including meadows, dry slopes, and open woods.
Light Requirements
Filiform bidens thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow and develop properly.
Temperature Requirements
Filiform bidens can grow in a wide range of temperatures. However, it prefers moderate to warm temperatures. The plant does not tolerate extreme heat or cold temperatures. Temperatures ranging between 60°F to 80°F are ideal for the growth and development of filiform bidens.
Soil Requirements
Filiform bidens prefers well-drained soils that are nutrient-rich. The plant can tolerate various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil pH should ideally be between 5.5 to 7.5.
Overall, filiform bidens is an easy-to-grow plant that can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. With the right amount of sunlight, temperature, and soil nutrients, this plant can thrive in different environments and provide an excellent addition to any landscape.
Cultivation
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff, commonly known as Menzies' beggarticks, is a herbaceous plant that can be grown in a garden or container. This plant prefers a sunny location with well-draining soil. It can tolerate partial shade but may not flower as abundantly in such conditions. The ideal temperature for its growth is between 20-25°C.
Watering Needs
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. The plant does not tolerate drought well and hence requires frequent watering in dry weather. It is important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
It is beneficial to fertilize Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff every 2-3 weeks with a balanced fertilizer during its growing season. This will enhance its overall growth and promote more flowering. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it may lead to a decline in the plant's health.
Pruning
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff does not require extensive pruning but deadheading can encourage more blooming. Once the flowers have withered, it is advisable to remove them to prevent seed formation. This will redirect the plant's energy towards producing new flowers instead of seeds.
Propagation of Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff, commonly known as Filiform Bidens or Menzies’ Beggarticks, is a native plant of the western United States. It is a small annual herb that can reach up to 50 cm in height. It is commonly found in open places such as meadows, rocky areas, and on the banks of streams and rivers.
Propagation methods
Bidens menziesii can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. Here are the details for each method:
Propagation by seed
The easiest and most common method of propagating Bidens menziesii is by seed. Here are the steps involved in this method:
- Collect the seeds from mature plants in the fall, when the seed heads have dried and turned brown.
- Remove the seeds from the seed heads and store them in a cool, dry place until you are ready to plant them.
- In the spring, sow the seeds directly into the soil where you want them to grow, or start them indoors in pots.
- If starting them indoors, use a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, bright location.
- Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, transplant them into the garden or into larger pots.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can be a bit more challenging, but it is still a viable option for Bidens menziesii. Here are the steps involved in this method:
- Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy, mature plant in the early summer.
- Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, bright location.
- Water the cutting regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy.
- Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into the garden or into a larger pot.
Overall, Bidens menziesii is an easy plant to propagate and can add a beautiful touch to any garden or landscape.
Disease Management:
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff is relatively disease-resistant, but it can still suffer from some common plant diseases such as powdery mildew, root rot, and leaf spot.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It is important to keep the plant neat and remove any fallen leaves that may harbor the disease. Applying a sulfur-based fungicide can also prevent powdery mildew.
Root rot is a fungal or bacterial disease that can cause serious damage to the plant's roots, leading to wilting and eventual death. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Also, avoid over-watering the plant and improve air circulation around the plant.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that appears as yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To control the spread of this disease, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. A copper-based fungicide can be applied to help control the disease.
Pest Management:
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff can be affected by pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause distortion and stunted growth of the plant. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and soap or using an insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause severe damage to the plant by piercing and sucking the fluids from the leaves. They can be controlled by introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs or by using a miticide.
Whiteflies are tiny, winged insects that can damage the plant by feeding on the leaves and causing wilting. They can be controlled by introducing beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps or by using a neem oil-based pesticide.
In conclusion, by practicing good cultural practices such as proper watering and air circulation and applying appropriate pesticides or fungicides, it is possible to keep Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. filiformis Sherff free from pests and diseases.
