Origin
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff, commonly known as Fingerleaf beggarticks or Hairy-leaved beggarticks, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America, specifically found in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah.
General Appearance
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff is a perennial herb that grows up to 30-100 cm tall. The stems are slender, branching, and hairy. The leaves are pinnately compound with 3-7 leaflets, with the terminal leaflet being the largest. The leaflets are lanceolate to oblong-lanceolate and have serrated edges. The flowers are yellow and have 10-20 ray florets that are 7-12 mm long. The fruit is an achene, 4-5 mm long, and has two barbed awns that are 3-4 mm long.
Common Names
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff has several common names, including Fingerleaf beggarticks, Hairy-leaved beggarticks, Fingerleaf bur marigold, and Hairy bitter-burs.
Uses
The seeds of Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff are used as a medicinal herb in traditional Native American medicine to treat several ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and skin diseases. The plant is also used as a herbal remedy for respiratory problems such as cough and bronchitis.
Growth Conditions for Bidens Phalangiphylla Sherff
The Bidens Phalangiphylla Sherff, commonly known as the Hairy Beggarticks, is a perennial herb that is usually found in moist areas such as meadows, marshes, and stream banks. The plant is characterized by its bright yellow flowers that bloom in clusters, and hairy leaves. The following are the typical growth conditions required for the plant.
Light Requirements
The plant requires full sun or partial shade to thrive. In areas with hot climates, partial shade is preferred as it helps to reduce the stress on the plant. In contrast, in areas with cooler climates, full sun exposure is recommended as it helps to enhance the plant's growth and productivity.
Temperature Requirements
The Hairy Beggarticks plant requires moderate temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). The plant can endure mild frosts, but harsh freezing temperatures can damage or even kill the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from extreme low temperatures during the winter season by covering it with a mulch layer or using a protective cloth.
Soil Requirements
The plant is commonly found in moist soils, and it prefers to grow in rich, fertile soils with good drainage. The ideal pH range for the Hairy Beggarticks is between 5.5 and 6.8. The soil should be well-drained, and the plant must be planted in a raised bed or in a location where the soil structure can be easily managed. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged as overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
By adhering to these growth conditions, Bidens Phalangiphylla Sherff can flourish and produce bright yellow flowers and foliage that enhance the overall beauty of the surrounding environment.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff, commonly known as Hairy Beggartick, requires a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate dry soils once established. Sow seeds in early spring or late fall directly in the garden, and thin the seedlings to 15-20 cm apart once they reach a height of 5-7 cm.
Watering Needs
Keep the soil evenly moist during the germination period of the seeds. Once established, Hairy Beggartick plants have low to medium water requirements. Water the plant deeply once a week during the hot, dry summer months, and consider mulching the soil to help retain moisture.
Fertilization
It is unnecessary to fertilize Hairy Beggartick plants if grown in a rich, organic soil. However, if the soil is poor, applying a balanced fertilizer once in the spring can help promote growth and flowering.
Pruning
Prune Hairy Beggartick plants in late winter to early spring before new growth emerges. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and remove any crossing branches to promote good air circulation. Hairy Beggartick plants have a natural bushy habit, so it is unnecessary to prune to maintain their shape.
Propagation of Bidens Phalangiphylla Sherff
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff is a hardy, rhizomatous perennial plant with yellow flowers. It is native to North America and grows in wetlands, meadows, and forests. The plant can be propagated by several methods, including seeds and division of the rhizome.
Propagation by Seeds
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff produces small, oblong seeds that can be collected in autumn after the flowers have faded. Before sowing, the seeds must be stratified by placing them in a moist medium at a temperature of 4°C for 6 to 8 weeks. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in pots or trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds will germinate in 10 to 14 days. When the seedlings have developed two or three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Division
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff can also be propagated by dividing the rhizome. This is best done in spring or early autumn when the plant is dormant. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the rhizomes into sections. Each section should have at least one viable shoot and a portion of the rhizome. Plant the divisions in a well-draining soil mix in a location with full sun to partial shade, and keep them moist until they are established.
Propagation of Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff is relatively easy, and the plant is useful for adding color and texture to wetland and woodland gardens. With proper care, the plant can live for many years and provide enjoyment and beauty to gardeners and wildlife alike.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff, commonly known as Hualaua, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the aster family, Asteraceae. This plant is native to the Hawaiian island of Kauai and is typically grown as an ornamental in gardens. However, like all plants, Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff is susceptible to various diseases and pests that could damage or kill it if not managed appropriately.
Common Diseases Affecting Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff
The most common diseases affecting Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff are fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust. Powdery mildew usually appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Rust, on the other hand, is characterized by orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves and stems.
To manage powdery mildew, you can use natural fungicides such as neem oil or baking soda spray. If it is a severe infection, use synthetic fungicides such as copper-based fungicide. If you notice signs of rust, remove and burn the infected parts of the plant. Applying a copper-based fungicide weekly can prevent future rust infections.
Common Pests Affecting Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff
Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff is also susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to curl, yellow, and eventually fall off.
To manage aphids and whiteflies, spray the plant with a solution of water and insecticidal soap. Spider mites are more challenging to control, but you can use horticultural oil or neem oil spray to manage the population.
Regularly inspecting and monitoring your Bidens phalangiphylla Sherff plant for any signs of disease or pest infestations can help you take the necessary steps to manage them before the situation gets out of control.
