Overview
Bidens occidentalis is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is also known as Western marsh marigold and is native to Africa, specifically Ethiopia.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to a height of 2 meters and has a stem that is slightly pubescent. The leaves are green and alternate, and they have a triangular shape. The plant produces yellow flowers with disc florets that are about 6 to 13 mm in diameter. The flower heads are arranged in few-headed axillary or terminal cymes.
Common Uses
Various parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes in Africa. The roots and leaves, in particular, have been used for treating a range of ailments, including stomach pains, malaria, and liver diseases. The plant also has antioxidant properties and is used in traditional medicine as a remedy for oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, the plant is used for ornamental purposes in gardens and for landscaping due to its attractive flowers.
Conclusion
Bidens occidentalis is a versatile plant that has various medicinal and ornamental uses. Its yellow flowers and triangular leaves make it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes. It is native to Africa and has been used for centuries by local healers for treating various ailments.
Light Requirements
Bidens occidentalis thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens occidentalis grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 21-26 °C (70-80 °F). It cannot tolerate frost and will die in temperatures that drop below 0 °C (32°F).
Soil Requirements
Bidens occidentalis requires moist, well-drained soil to grow. It can grow in different types of soil, but prefers sandy loams or loamy soils. It grows well in soils with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant requires moderate levels of fertility and can grow in both poor and rich soils.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens occidentalis plants grow best in well-draining, loamy soil, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. They require full sun exposure for optimal growth and should be sowed in spring when the temperatures warm. Seeds should be sowed to a depth of about ¼ inch and spaced at least 6 inches apart. Cover the seeds with soil and gently pat it down. Water the soil thoroughly but avoid overwatering so as not to cause rotting of the seeds.
Watering Needs
Bidens occidentalis plants require consistent moisture levels, so regular watering is essential, especially during the hot, dry months, to keep the soil moist but not soaked. Water deeply, providing at least one inch of water per week. When watering, avoid wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
Fertilization
Bidens occidentalis plants are light feeders and do not require frequent fertilization. Fertilize the plant annually with a well-balanced fertilizer, preferably in early spring or fall. Avoid overfertilizing, as this may lead to the development of leggy plants with reduced flowering.
Pruning
Bidens occidentalis plants should not be pruned heavily since pruning may damage the plant's delicate root system. However, removing spent blooms by deadheading can encourage reblooming and prolong flowering. Pinching back the stem tips after the first flowering can also promote bushier growth and lead to increased flowering. Cut off any diseased, damaged, or dead stems or leaves as soon as they appear.
Propagation of Bidens occidentalis (Hutch. & Dalziel) Mesfin
Bidens occidentalis (Hutch. & Dalziel) Mesfin, also known as the western beggartick, is a herbaceous annual plant that is usually found growing in wetlands, along the margins of streams and ponds, and in other moist environments. It is native to Africa, but it is also widespread across other parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and the Americas.
Propagation of Bidens occidentalis can be done using either seeds or cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
The seeds of Bidens occidentalis are relatively easy to collect, store, and germinate. To propagate this plant from seeds:
- Collect the seeds from mature plants during the fall or early winter.
- Store the seeds in a cool, dry place until ready to use.
- In the spring, sow the seeds directly into the ground or in pots filled with a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7-14 days.
- As the seedlings grow, thin them out to give them more room to develop.
Propagation from Cuttings
Bidens occidentalis can also be propagated from cuttings taken from mature plants. To propagate this plant from cuttings:
- Take stem cuttings from mature plants during the spring or summer.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone to encourage rooting.
- Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist and warm to encourage rooting, which usually takes about 2-3 weeks.
- Once the cutting has rooted, transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation of Bidens occidentalis is relatively easy and can result in a robust and healthy plant that can enhance any garden or wetland environment.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens occidentalis (Hutch. & Dalziel) Mesfin
Bidens occidentalis (Hutch. & Dalziel) Mesfin is a plant species that is affected by different diseases and pests. The following are some of the common diseases and pests that invade this plant:
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew
It is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the infected leaves, provide sufficient ventilation, and use fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil.
2. Rust Diseases
Rust diseases cause yellow or red spots on the leaves of Bidens occidentalis. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves, provide sufficient air circulation, and use fungicides.
3. Leaf Spots
Leaf spots occur due to bacterial or fungal infections. This causes the leaves to have yellow, brown, or black spots. To prevent this disease, avoid overhead watering, prune infected leaves, and use fungicides.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause yellowing and curling of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that appear on the undersides of the leaves and cause stippling and yellowing of leaves. To manage this pest, wash the plant regularly, increase humidity, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
3. Thrips
Thrips are small insects that feed on the sap of Bidens occidentalis, causing a silver or bronze appearance on the leaves. To control this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
In conclusion, Bidens occidentalis (Hutch. & Dalziel) Mesfin requires proper management of diseases and pests for healthy growth and yield. Regular monitoring, proper sanitation, appropriate cultural practices, and the use of fungicides and insecticides can help prevent and manage these problems.
