Origin and Common Names
Bidens negriana (Sherff) Cufod. is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Brazil and is commonly known as "Black-fruit Beggarticks," "Ferro Planted Flechette," and "Carrapicho Preto."
Uses
Bidens negriana has different uses to different people. Indigenous communities use the plant to treat some ailments. The root is used to stop bleeding, while the tea extract from the leaves is used for wound healing. It is also used to ease stomach cramps and menstrual pain. The plant has been used as a natural dye for clothes.
Bidens negriana's benefits are not limited to health and tradition. It is also used in landscaping as an ornamental plant. Bidens negriana has a prolonged flowering period, with yellow flowers, which makes it an excellent addition to gardens. It also helps reduce soil erosion and enhances pollination in natural environments.
General Appearance
Bidens negriana is a perennial herb that grows to a height of 60 cm. It has a woody stem and branches that are covered in fine hairs and bear ovate leaves. The leaves are usually opposite, and range from 2-3cm long and 1-2cm wide. At the top of the stem, Bidens negriana produces a cluster of flowers, which are bright yellow in color and bloom from July to October. Fruits are black in color, about 0.5cm long, and shaped like a needle or dart with hooked spines that aid dispersal.
Growth Conditions for Bidens Negriana
Bidens negriana is a tropical plant species that thrives in sunny and humid conditions. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is native to South America. The plant has bright yellow flowers and can grow up to 80cm tall. Here are the detailed growth conditions necessary for the survival of Bidens negriana.
Light Requirements
Bidens negriana requires plenty of sunlight to grow and thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but full sunlight is preferred. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Soil Requirements
The soil in which Bidens negriana is planted should be rich in nutrients and capable of retaining moisture. A well-draining soil is also essential to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.0. If necessary, you can add organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve the soil's fertility.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens negriana is a tropical plant species that requires warm temperatures to grow and flourish. The plant can tolerate temperatures between 18°C to 28°C, but it is recommended to keep the temperature between 20°C to 24°C for optimal growth. In extremely low temperatures, the plant may suffer from frost damage and eventually die.
Watering Requirements
Bidens negriana requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. It is essential to let the soil dry out partially between watering sessions to prevent waterlogging. During the hot summer months, Bidens negriana may require more frequent watering sessions to maintain the soil moisture levels.
Fertilization Requirements
Bidens negriana is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season. However, be careful not to over-fertilize the plant, which can lead to salt accumulation in the soil and cause damage to the plant roots.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens negriana is a perennial shrub that grows in well-drained soils. It prefers to be planted in areas with full sun and humid climates. The shrub propagates from seeds, which can be directly sown in early spring or late summer. Sow the seeds in well-prepared soil, planting them about half an inch deep. The shrub should be kept moist until the seeds germinate.
Watering Needs
Bidens negriana requires regular watering during its growing period to ensure proper growth and development. The shrub should be watered deeply and consistently, making sure that the topsoil remains moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may result in root rot and damage to the plant
Fertilization
The plant requires nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth. It is best to fertilize Bidens negriana with a slow-release fertilizer, applied during the early stage of growth. An additional application of fertilizer can be done in mid-summer to promote flowering and overall plant health. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this may cause leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning of Bidens negriana should be done in late winter or early spring before the start of the next growing season. The shrub should be pruned to remove any dead or damaged wood. A light pruning of the plant can be done in mid-summer to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Remove faded flowers to encourage new growth and prolong flowering.
Propagation of Bidens Negriana
Bidens Negriana is a flowering plant native to Brazil, specifically in the regions of Paraná, Santa Catarina, and São Paulo. It has yellow petals and measures around 35-60 mm in diameter. The plant is hermaphroditic, which means that it has both male and female reproductive organs. Propagation can be done using the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Bidens Negriana can be done through seed germination. The first step is to collect the matured seeds from the plant. Once collected, the seeds are planted in a suitable seedbed. The soil should be fertile, well-drained, and moist. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and the seedbed should be placed in a shaded area. The seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Bidens Negriana can also be propagated using cuttings. The first step is to cut a healthy stem from the mother plant. The cutting should be around 7-10 cm long. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem, leaving only two to three leaves on the upper part. Dip the lower part of the stem in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root formation. Once dipped, plant the cutting in a suitable growing medium, making sure that the soil is moist and well-drained. The cutting should be placed in a shaded area where it can receive indirect sunlight.
Division Propagation
Propagation through division can also be done for Bidens Negriana. This method involves dividing the mother plant into sections. This can be done by carefully removing the plant from the soil and separating the root ball into several sections, each having a few stems and healthy roots. Replant each section in a suitable growing medium, making sure that the soil is moist and well-drained. The new plants should be placed in shaded areas.
Regardless of the propagation method used, the newly grown plants should be watered regularly, preferably twice a week, and fertilized appropriately. In addition, young plants should be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management of Bidens Negriana
Bidens Negriana or Sherff's Tickseed is a flowering plant species that belong to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Brazil and is commonly grown as a garden plant in different parts of the world. As with other plants, Bidens Negriana is also vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests that can cause significant harm. Here is some information on the common diseases and pests that affect Bidens Negriana and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects several plant species, including Bidens Negriana. It is characterized by the development of a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. The disease often occurs during periods of high humidity, and it can weaken the plant by hindering photosynthesis and reducing its overall vigor. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove and destroy infected plant parts, enhance plant ventilation, limit nitrogen fertilizer, and apply fungicides if the problem persists.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is also a fungal disease that affects Bidens Negriana. It causes brown, black, or yellow spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation in severe cases. The disease usually occurs in warm and humid conditions, and it spreads through rain, wind, or contaminated pruning tools. To manage leaf spots, it is necessary to spray fungicides according to manufacturer instructions, water plants early in the day, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper pruning.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are insects that feed on the sap of plants, and they are a common pest of Bidens Negriana. They appear as small, soft-bodied insects that are usually green, yellow, or brown. They feed on young plant parts, causing distortion and stunted growth. To manage aphids, it is necessary to wash the plant regularly with water, physically remove them from the plant, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, and use insecticides if the problem persists.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are a type of arachnid that feeds on the sap of plants, causing a yellowing of the leaves, webbing, and stunted growth. They are problematic for Bidens Negriana, and they usually occur in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, it is necessary to provide adequate water to the plant, spray water to physically remove them, introduce natural predators, use insecticides or acaricides, and avoid excess nitrogen fertilization.
By being vigilant and knowing the signs and symptoms of damage caused by diseases and pests, you can effectively manage and prevent damage to the Bidens Negriana plant. Effective management involves a combination of cultural practices, biological and chemical controls, and good horticultural practices.
