Origin
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as H?h? in Hawaiian language, is a flowering plant species that is endemic to Hawaii, specifically found in the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. It belongs to the family Asteraceae, the largest family of flowering plants.
Common Names
Bidens Menziesii is commonly known as "Kokua" and "Monkey's ear" in English. Kokua means "to help" in Hawaiian language, possibly referring to the plant's medicinal uses. The name "Monkey's ear" refers to the shape of the leaves, which resembles the ears of a monkey.
Uses
Bidens menziesii has a long history of traditional use in Hawaiian medicine. The plant is believed to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic properties. The leaves, flowers, and stems were used to treat various ailments such as burns, coughs, fever, and urinary tract infections among others. The juice from the leaves was also used as a mouthwash to relieve toothache and sore gums. The plant's leaves and stems also have a high level of tannins, which have been used for their astringent properties in various medicinal preparations.
General Appearance
Bidens menziesii is an annual herb that can reach a height of up to 3 feet. The leaves are opposite, toothed, and divided into three to seven pointed lobes, with long leaf stalks and a distinctive heart-shaped base. The flowers are yellow, composed of ray and disc flowers, and are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits are small, hairy, and barbed achenes, which can cling to clothing or animal fur, allowing for seed dispersal.
Overall, Bidens menziesii is a valuable and distinctive plant that has played an important role in traditional Hawaiian medicine. However, as with many endemic Hawaiian species, its habitat is threatened by habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts.Growth Conditions for Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida
The Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida plant thrives in several environments, including prairies, meadows, rocky areas, and open woodlands. The plant, which is native to the western United States, is an annual herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height.
Light Requirements
Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida plants grow best in areas with full sunlight or partial shade. They can tolerate a considerable amount of shade, especially during hot summer months. For optimal growth, the plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida plant can grow in various temperature conditions. However, it thrives in areas that experience moderate temperatures with an average range of 12 °C to 26 °C during the growing season. The plant is tolerant of hot and dry conditions but does not perform well in extreme heat or cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida prefers well-drained soils that are sandy or loamy. The soil must be rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soils and can grow in a wide range of soil textures. However, it does not perform well in soils that are waterlogged or compacted.
providing optimal growth conditions can lead to healthier Bidens Menziesii var. Lepida plants that bloom in profusion and attract beneficial insects.
Cultivation Methods for Bidens Menziesii
Bidens Menziesii is a hardy plant that thrives in conditions ranging from full sun to partial shade. It grows well in both wet and dry soil types and requires very little attention once established.
For best results, plant Bidens Menziesii in well-drained soil with a pH between 5 and 7. It can be grown from seed or propagated from cuttings. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground or started indoors and transplanted.
It is recommended to space the plants about 18-24 inches apart to allow room for growth and prevent overcrowding. Mulching around the plants can help retain moisture in the soil.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for Bidens Menziesii are minimal once the plant is established. It can tolerate drought conditions but prefers to be kept moist. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to allow the soil to dry out a bit between waterings.
During the hot summer months, it may be necessary to water more frequently. Check the soil moisture level by sticking your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.
Fertilization
Bidens Menziesii is not a heavy feeder and usually doesn't require fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) in the spring to give the plant a boost. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and don't overdo it.
Pruning
Bidens Menziesii doesn't require much pruning, but you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent blooms can also prolong the flowering period.
In the fall, you can cut back the plant to about 6 inches to prepare it for winter dormancy. Be sure to clean up any debris around the plant to prevent disease and insect problems.
Propagation of Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff can be propagated through a variety of methods. These plants are native to the western parts of North America, including California and Oregon. They are commonly referred to as "Menzies' beggarticks" or "dwarf bur marigold." The following are some propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method to propagate Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff. Sow seeds in a well-draining potting mix after the final frost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 10-21 days.
Division Propagation
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff can also be propagated through division. Divide the clumps in the fall, and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Make sure each section has some roots. Keep them moist, and provide bright, indirect sunlight.
Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff is through cuttings. Take 3-4 inch long cuttings from the parent plant, and strip away the lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder, and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide bright, indirect sunlight.
Whichever propagation method you choose, make sure to keep the soil moist and not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect sunlight and temperature in the range of 60-70°F. The plants will start to grow within 4-6 weeks.
Disease Management
Bidens menziesii (Gray) Sherff var. lepida O. Deg. & Sherff is a drought-tolerant plant that is susceptible to a few diseases. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that affects this plant. The symptoms of powdery mildew include white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and stems and dispose of them. Additionally, avoid watering the plant from above and water at the base of the plant.
Fungal leaf spots are another common disease that affects Bidens menziesii. Symptoms of this disease include brown or black spots on the leaves, often with a yellow halo. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and reduce humidity around the plant. Avoid wetting the foliage, and water the plant at the base. Add a layer of mulch on the soil to reduce moisture around the plant.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Bidens menziesii. The Mexican bean beetle is a common pest that feeds on the foliage of this plant. Symptoms of Mexican bean beetle infestation include skeletonized leaves and defoliation. To manage this pest, handpick beetles off the plant and use a neem oil solution to deter them. Additionally, encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control the beetles.
Aphids are also common pests that affect Bidens menziesii. These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and cause curled, distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray them off the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to help control aphids.
Caterpillars like the cabbage looper can also chew on the foliage of Bidens menziesii. Symptoms of caterpillar damage include irregular holes in the leaves and frass (insect excrement) on the foliage. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant and encourage natural predators such as birds to help control them. Additionally, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to manage severe infestations.
