Origin
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the island of Oahu in Hawaii, but has since been cultivated and introduced to other areas around the world.
Common Names
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner is commonly known as white-fruited kookoolau in its native Hawaii. It is also referred to as the white-flowered swamp marigold, although it is not actually a marigold.
Uses
Despite its attractive flowers, Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner does not have any known traditional uses. However, it has potential as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its beauty and hardiness.
General Appearance
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner is a perennial herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has alternate leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed. The plant produces striking white flowers that are about 4 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have a yellow center and are held on long stalks above the foliage. Its fruits are small, white, and oblong-shaped. This plant requires full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil.
Light Requirements
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner prefers full sun to partial shade. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily is required for healthy growth and flowering. Appropriate shade can be provided in areas with hot climates so that the plant does not receive direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner is between 15°C to 30°C. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate some variations in temperature. Although they can survive in high temperatures, they require adequate water during hot weather to prevent dehydration. Temperatures below 10°C can affect the blooming of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner grows well in nutrient-rich, moist soil. They are not very specific about soil type, but prefer loamy soil with proper drainage. The pH range of the soil should be between 5.5 to 7.0 to prevent nutritional deficiencies or toxicity. The addition of organic matter, such as compost, is beneficial for the plant's growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as white marsh marigold, is a herbaceous perennial plant that thrives well in well-drained soils. When cultivating this plant, ensure that you plant it in a moist and partly shaded area. It would be best to plant it in the soil during spring and summer when the soil temperature is at least 16 and 18 degrees Celsius, respectively. These conditions will encourage optimal growth.
Watering Needs
White marsh marigold requires constant moisture in the soil. You may have to water it occasionally during dry seasons or drought. However, if the soil is waterlogged, the plant will not thrive well. Overwatering may cause root rot, which is detrimental to the plant's health. Therefore, use a well-draining soil and allow the soil to dry up slightly before watering.
Fertilization
It's important to note that white marsh marigold doesn’t require too much fertilization. However, if you need to fertilize it, do so at the start of the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous for optimal growth. However, avoid overfertilizing as it may result in excessively long and weak stems.
Pruning
White marsh marigold requires pruning to keep it tidy, promote healthy growth, and improve its overall appearance. Prune the plant in early spring when the new growth is emerging. Cut it back to about 10 cm to encourage bushier, fuller growth. Remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems to maintain a healthy plant.
Propagation of Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as white egret madwort, can propagate through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and divisions. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages.
Propagation through seeds
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner produces small, brownish-black seeds that are easy to obtain. The best time to collect the seeds is when the flower head has dried out and turned brown. The seeds should be collected in a paper bag and stored in a cool, dry place until needed.
The propagation through seeds is a cost-effective method, and it can yield a large number of plants. To propagate through seeds, the seeds should be sown directly into the soil in spring, after the last frost. The soil should be moist and well-drained. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm and should be spaced 30 cm apart. They should germinate within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner can also propagate through stem cuttings. This method is advantageous for obtaining plants with the same characteristics as the parent plant. To propagate through cuttings, take 8 to 10 cm long cuttings from the parent plant, during the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Strip off the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cuttings in a well-draining pot, with a mix of sand and compost. Keep the soil moist, and after 3-4 weeks, new roots will start to grow.
Propagation through division
Propagation through division is an excellent method for increasing the number of plants. It is best to divide Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner during the early spring when the new growth has just started. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections with shoots. The sections should be planted in well-drained, moist soil and should be kept watered until new growth starts.
Overall, Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner has several propagation methods, making it easy to grow in many different locations and environments.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner
Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner, commonly known as white-stemmed beggarticks, is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage or even kill the plant. Here are some common issues that may affect your Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: The most common fungal diseases that affect Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner are root rot, powdery mildew, and downy mildew. Root rot is caused by over-watering and poor drainage and can be prevented by improving soil drainage and reducing watering frequency. Powdery mildew and downy mildew are both caused by fungal spores and can be managed by removing affected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial leaf spot is a common bacterial disease that affects Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner. It causes small, water-soaked spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and fall off. The disease can be managed by removing affected leaves and spraying the plant with a bactericide.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause distortion of leaves and stems and transmit viruses. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a gentle soap solution or releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or releasing beneficial insects like predatory mites.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing distorted leaves and flower buds. They can transmit viruses. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a insecticide.
By being vigilant and regular with inspection of the plant, coupled with the appropriate management practices, the Bidens rubicundula Sherff forma alba T.G.J.Rayner will thrive healthily and vigorously.
