Introduction
Bidens ochracea (O.Hoffm.) Sherff, also known as yellow cosmos or beggarticks, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the Americas, particularly in South America, but has been introduced to several other regions around the world.
General appearance
Bidens ochracea is a herbaceous annual or perennial plant that can grow up to 1-1.5 meters in height. Its stem is erect, branching, and covered in hair-like structures. The leaves are alternate, compound, and consist of 3-7 oval-shaped leaflets with serrated edges. The flowers are bright yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of 1-3 cm. They bloom from late summer to early winter and are followed by small, elongated fruits with hooked bristles that cling to clothing and animal fur, giving rise to its common name "beggarticks".
Uses
Bidens ochracea has several traditional medicinal uses. In South America, it has been used to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and diarrhea. The leaves and flowers are often brewed into tea, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic properties. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in other regions of the world, including Africa and India.
Bidens ochracea is also cultivated as an ornamental plant and is grown in gardens and parks for its attractive, yellow flowers. It is known to be drought-tolerant and easy to care for, making it a popular choice for use in xeriscaping and landscaping projects.
Light Requirements
Bidens ochracea grows best in full sunlight and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It cannot survive in areas with insufficient light or in the shade:
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid climate and grows best in temperatures between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It cannot tolerate frost or long periods of cold:
Soil Requirements
Bidens ochracea prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 5 and 8. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, clay, and sand. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soils:
Water Requirements
This plant requires frequent watering, especially during the growing and flowering seasons. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases:
Fertilizer Requirements
Bidens ochracea does not require heavy fertilization but can benefit from regular application of a balanced fertilizer. The fertilizer should contain equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Overfertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering:
Propagation
Bidens ochracea can be propagated by seeds or vegetative cuttings. The seeds should be planted in spring or summer, and it takes about two to three weeks for them to germinate. Vegetative cuttings can be taken in spring or summer and should be placed in a well-draining potting mix. The newly propagated plants should be kept in a warm and humid environment until established:
Cultivation of Bidens ochracea
Bidens ochracea is drought-tolerant, and can grow in different types of soil and light conditions. However, it prefers well-draining soil and partial shade. When sowing the seeds, cover them lightly with soil, and keep them moist until they germinate. Gradually reduce the watering frequency once the seedlings start to grow.
Watering Needs
Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months. Make sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot. When watering, avoid wetting the foliage, as it may lead to leaf spot diseases.
Fertilization
Bidens ochracea does not require frequent fertilization. However, it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied at the beginning of the growing season. Alternatively, you can apply a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every two to three weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as that may lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooming.
Pruning
Bidens ochracea does not require excessive pruning. However, you can trim back the plant after it has finished blooming to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Removing spent blooms can also encourage the plant to produce more flowers. Use sterilized pruning shears, and make clean cuts just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Bidens ochracea (O.Hoffm.) Sherff
Bidens ochracea (O.Hoffm.) Sherff is an herbaceous perennial plant generally propagated by seed or by division.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds can be collected from the plant once it has finished blooming and the flowers have dried and turned brown. These seeds can be stored in a dry, cool, and dark place for up to a year before use.
To propagate by seed, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist until the seedlings emerge, which can take up to several weeks. The seedlings can then be transplanted to a larger pot or into the garden once they have grown to sufficient size.
Propagation by Division
Bidens ochracea (O.Hoffm.) Sherff can also be propagated by division. This involves separating a portion of the plant's root and foliage and replanting it as a separate individual.
To propagate by division, the plant should be dug up carefully, and the root system should be gently separated. Each division should have a reasonable amount of root and foliage. These divisions can then be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and watered thoroughly.
It is best to conduct division in the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant, which increases its chances of successful propagation.
Disease Management
Bidens ochracea (O.Hoffm.) Sherff is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Identifying these diseases early and implementing appropriate control measures can minimize their impact and ensure the optimal health of the plant.
One common disease that affects Bidens ochracea is powdery mildew. This disease manifests as white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to remove and destroy affected plant parts, improve air circulation around the plant, and apply fungicides as necessary.
Another disease that can affect Bidens ochracea is root rot. This disease is caused by several fungi and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To avoid root rot, it is important to maintain well-drained soil and to avoid over-watering the plant. Applying fungicides can also help control the spread of root rot.
Pest Management
Bidens ochracea is also susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Implementing appropriate pest management strategies can help prevent these pests from inflicting serious harm on the plant.
One common pest that affects Bidens ochracea is the whitefly. These insects infest the undersides of the leaves and feed on the sap, eventually causing the leaves to yellow and die. To control whiteflies, it is recommended to use sticky traps to capture adults and to apply insecticides as necessary.
Aphids are another pest that can affect Bidens ochracea. These sap-sucking insects cluster on the tender new growth of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, it is recommended to wash the plant with a strong stream of water, or to apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars can also infest Bidens ochracea plants, causing extensive damage to the leaves and flowers. To control caterpillars, it is recommended to handpick and destroy any visible worms or to apply pesticide formulations specifically designed for caterpillar control.
Implementing strict sanitation practices, such as removing and disposing of dead plant material and keeping the planting area free from debris, can also help prevent the buildup of pests and diseases on Bidens ochracea.
