Overview
Bidens rueppellii, also known as Sherff, is a plant species native to Ethiopia and East Africa. It belongs to the family Asteraceae, which is known for its many medicinal and edible plants.
Common Names
Some common names for Bidens rueppellii include African beggartick, Congo tickseed, and Rueppell's beggartick.
Uses
The Bidens rueppellii plant has several traditional medicinal uses. In Ethiopia, it has been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as stomach aches, diarrhea, and dysentery. It has also been used to treat fever, malaria, and other infections.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant also has nutritional uses. The leaves and young shoots of Bidens rueppellii are consumed as a vegetable in parts of Ethiopia. The plant is particularly popular in the Konso region, where it is known as Konsogna.
Appearance
Bidens rueppellii is a sprawling annual herb that can grow up to 60 cm in height. It has deep green, serrated leaves and produces small yellow flowers with dark centers that resemble sunflowers. The plant produces small, barbed seeds that can attach to clothing and fur, aiding in their dispersal.
Light Requirements:
Bidens rueppellii thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of proper light could result in stunted growth and smaller flowers.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant is native to East and South Africa and is adapted to thrive in warm environments. Bidens rueppellii prefers temperatures between 20-30 °C but can withstand temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 40°C. Periods of frost can harm the plant and should be avoided.
Soil Requirements:
Bidens rueppellii prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention. Avoid soils that are waterlogged as they can result in root rot. The plant can tolerate clay soils and drought conditions for short periods of time, but optimal growth conditions would require moist soil.
Other Requirements:
Bidens rueppellii is a low maintenance plant that doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer during planting will result in more blooms. Regular pruning will encourage bushier, fuller growth, and encourage continuous blooms throughout the growing season. It is important to water the plant regularly, particularly during hot and dry seasons, and to remove any yellowing or damaged leaves to prevent disease spread.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens rueppellii grows best in full sun to partial shade and prefers fertile, well-drained soils. This plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the spring, and cuttings should be taken in the summer. The plant typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet and spreads to a width of 2-3 feet.
Watering Needs
Bidens rueppellii needs regular watering, especially during the first growing season. The plant prefers moist soil, but does not tolerate standing water. Water should be applied deeply and allowed to soak into the soil to encourage root growth. During hot, dry spells, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Bidens rueppellii benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every 4-6 weeks. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once at the beginning of the growing season.
Pruning
Bidens rueppellii does not require frequent pruning, but occasional trimming can help maintain the plant's shape and encourage bushier growth. Pruning should be done in the spring, after new growth has appeared. Dead or damaged branches should be removed promptly to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Bidens rueppellii (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff
Bidens rueppellii (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff can be propagated both through seeds and cuttings. The following are some of the propagation methods that can be used:
Seeds
Bidens rueppellii (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff produces viable seeds that can be collected and used for propagation. The seeds should be sown in well-draining, moist soil and covered with a light layer of soil. They should be placed in a warm, bright location, and watered regularly until they germinate, which can take about 3 weeks.
Cuttings
Bidens rueppellii (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff can also be propagated using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long, taken from healthy plants, and preferably from new growth. The leaves on the lower part of the stem should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be placed in a bright, warm location. The cutting should root in about 2-3 weeks, after which it can be potted individually.
Disease Management
Bidens rueppellii is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and yield. The common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by circular, brown spots on the leaves. It is caused by fungal pathogens and can lead to defoliation in severe cases. To manage leaf spot, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can also be used.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens. It leads to the rotting of roots, which affects the plant's ability to uptake water and nutrients. The symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage, and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers. It appears as a white powdery substance on the affected parts of the plant. Powdery mildew can weaken the plant and reduce its ability to produce flowers. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicides and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Bidens rueppellii is also susceptible to attack by pests. The common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant's sap. They cause distortion of the leaves and the growth of mold on the affected parts. To manage aphids, spray insecticides, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Cutworms: Cutworms are the larvae of moths that feed on the stems of young plants. They can cut the plant at the base, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, handpick the larvae and spray insecticides.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves and flowers. They cause discoloration and deformation of the leaves and flowers. To manage thrips, use insecticides and encourage natural predators such as lacewings and ladybugs.
