Origin
Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod. is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae that is native to Africa, particularly in Angola and Zambia.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the "wax beggar-ticks", "tall beggarticks" or "stickyjack".
General Appearance
The Bidens pachyloma var. inanis is an annual herb that can grow up to 2 meters tall with a stem that is ridged and hairy. The leaves are pinnate, alternately arranged, and measure 15–30 cm long. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with 7–14 ray florets and numerous disk florets. They grow in clusters on the top of the plant. The fruit of the plant is a 3–4 mm long achene that is shaped like a curved needle.
Uses
In traditional African medicine, Bidens pachyloma is used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, stomach pains, and even snake bites. In addition, the stem and leaves of the plant are used to make a yellow dye for textiles. The plant is also used in beekeeping, as its nectar and pollen are valuable sources of food for bees.
Light Requirements
Bidens pachyloma var. inanis typically thrives in full sun to partial shade. However, it prefers bright sunlight and at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Indirect or filtered light is also suitable for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bidens pachyloma var. inanis varies between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). It is highly intolerant to frost and cannot survive prolonged exposure to temperatures below 0°C (32°F). Therefore, this plant requires protection during winters in colder climates.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, Bidens pachyloma var. inanis requires well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5. It can also tolerate slightly acidic soil conditions. A soil mix with high organic content and good drainage is perfect for this plant. However, it can adapt to different soil types to some extent.
Cultivation methods
Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod. can be grown both outdoors and indoors. If planting seeds outdoors, ensure that the soil is moistened and the plants are planted about 2-3 feet apart. If planting indoors, fill a container with well-draining soil, and keep it in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering needs
Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod. should be watered regularly, ensuring that the soil does not dry out completely. Overwatering can harm the plant and lead to root rot, so be sure to only provide enough water to keep the soil from drying out. The frequency of watering may need to be increased during hot weather or if the plant is in a pot.
Fertilization
Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod. responds well to regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer that has an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season to help encourage growth.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod. is not necessary, but it can help promote bushier growth if desired. To prune, simply pinch the stem tips with your fingers or trim with sharp scissors. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or stems to help maintain the plant's health.
Propagation of Bidens pachyloma var. inanis
Bidens pachyloma var. inanis can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods. Several factors such as the availability of resources, time, and the intended use of the propagated plants must be considered before deciding on the propagation method.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method used for Bidens pachyloma var. inanis. The seeds should be collected from the mature plants, usually in the fall. To obtain viable seeds, the flowers should be allowed to dry completely on the plant before harvesting. The harvested seeds should be cleaned and dried before planting.
Seeds are planted in a well-prepared seedbed or directly in small pots filled with a well-drained potting mix. Although Bidens pachyloma var. inanis can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, a fertile and well-drained soil will promote healthy growth. The seeds should be planted 1-2 centimeters deep and watered regularly. Bidens pachyloma var. inanis seeds usually germinate within 2 to 3 weeks depending on the soil temperature.
Propagation through Vegetative Methods
Bidens pachyloma var. inanis can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as stem-cuttings and division of root clumps. Stem-cuttings can be taken from mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and should include at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the remaining leaves should be cut in half to reduce transpiration. The cuttings should be planted in a rooting hormone and placed in a well-drained potting mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and humid environment for several weeks until they begin to root.
Division of root clumps is another vegetative method of propagation. This method involves dividing the mature plant into smaller sections. Each section should have several growing points and a portion of the root system. The smaller sections are replanted in well-drained soil and watered regularly until well-established. This method is best done during the fall or spring when the plant is dormant.
Disease Management for Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod.
Bidens pachyloma is generally a hardy plant, but it can be prone to certain diseases. The most common diseases that affect this species include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To manage these diseases it is important to properly maintain the plant's environment and follow good cultural practices. Below are some strategies for managing common diseases of Bidens pachyloma.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew can be a common issue for Bidens pachyloma, especially when conditions are particularly humid. To prevent powdery mildew, remove infected leaves as soon as they appear and avoid overhead watering. Provide adequate spacing between plants to increase air circulation and reduce humidity. Fungicides can be used to manage powdery mildew, but it is important to choose a product that is labeled for use on Bidens pachyloma.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spots can be caused by a number of fungal or bacterial pathogens. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove infected leaves as soon as possible and dispose of them in the trash. Camouflaged spotting is common in plants, but you should always check new leaves for any spots that come up. Prune any branches that may be blocking sunlight or air circulation, and be wary of overcrowding. Always use clean shears and employ good sanitation practices when pruning.
Root Rot
Root rot is often caused by over-watering of the plant. To manage root rot, reduce the frequency of watering, or reduce the amount of water given at each watering. Be careful not to let the soil of the plant dry out too much, as this can significantly impact the plant's survival. If root rot has already taken hold, you may need to take more drastic measures such as replacing the entire soil volume used by the plant or pruning the roots and rinsing them with a hydrogen peroxide solution.
Pest Management for Bidens pachyloma (Oliv. & Hiern) Cufod. var. inanis (Sherff) Cufod.
There are a number of pests that may affect Bidens pachyloma. These include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. The pests can cause direct damage to the plant, or they can spread diseases. Below are some strategies for managing common pests of Bidens pachyloma.
Aphids
Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to Bidens pachyloma. To manage aphids, rinse the leaves of the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects or use organic pesticides. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides, which can kill beneficial insects as well.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause significant damage to Bidens pachyloma. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant thoroughly with a strong stream of water, or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to Bidens pachyloma. To manage whiteflies, rinse the leaves of the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects or use insecticidal soap. Be sure to spray the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves as these insects will often feed on the undersides of leaves.
