Origin
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a plant species native to Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Tanzania. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is part of the genus Bidens, which includes around 200 species of flowering plants.
Common Names
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is commonly known as "Ethiopian beggarticks" or "Schimper's beggarticks".
Uses
Traditionally, Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. has been used in Ethiopia and Eritrea as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as stomachache, malaria, and scabies. The plant has also been used as a traditional remedy to improve digestion, relieve headaches and fever, and treat wounds. Recent scientific studies have shown that Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. contains compounds with potent anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, which could justify its traditional uses.
General Appearance
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is an annual herb that can grow up to 80 cm in height. It has a straight and erect stem covered with short hairs and can produce branches at the top. The leaves are green and pinnately divided into 3 to 5 leaflets, with the terminal lobe being bigger than the others. The plant produces small yellow flowers in clusters at the end of branches. The fruits are small, brown, and elongated achenes bearing two barbed awns that can attach to clothing or animal fur and be dispersed long distances, leading to the plant's common name, beggarticks.
Growth Conditions for Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Light Requirements: Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. prefers full sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but will not thrive in completely shady conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to place this plant in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements: Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a sun-loving plant that requires warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 29°C. It cannot survive in extreme cold or hot temperatures, so it is important to protect it from frost and heatwaves.
Soil Requirements: Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. prefers well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 to 6.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy and clay soils. However, it is essential to avoid waterlogged soils that can cause root rot. Therefore, it is recommended to improve soil drainage by adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure.
Water Requirements: Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. requires moderate watering during the growing season. It prefers moist but not waterlogged soils. It is essential to avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot, yellow leaves, and stunted growth. Therefore, it is recommend watering once per week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizer Requirements: Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. is a heavy feeder that requires regular fertilization to grow and bloom properly. It is recommend utilizing a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, applied during the growing season, once a month. Alternatively, using organic fertilizers such as compost or aged manure can provide adequate nutrition for the plant. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and application instructions to avoid fertilizer burn.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp., also known as the Ethiopian demoina, is a flowering plant that thrives well in well-drained soils and requires ample sunlight for its growth. It can be propagated via seeds or cuttings.
If planting from seeds, ensure that the site is weed-free and has organic matter to provide adequate nutrients to the seedlings. Sow the seeds in shallow depressions and cover them lightly with soil to prevent dehydration.
If using cuttings, take them from healthy plants and plant them in a pre-prepared bed under the same soil conditions. Keep the soil moist but not water-logged until the cuttings establish and begin to grow.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential to the growth and development of Bidens schimperi. The plant requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture, especially during the dry season. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering as it may lead to water-logging, root rot, and other related issues.
Ensure that the soil drains well to prevent the accumulation of excess water. Water Bidens schimperi when the soil feels dry to a depth of about one inch. A thorough watering once or twice a week is enough in most cases.
Fertilization
Bidens schimperi requires nutrient-rich soil to thrive well and produce healthy foliage and flowers. Fertilization is an essential aspect of its care, and it is advisable to apply a low nitrogen fertilizer in the early growth stages.
Fertilize the plants monthly during the growing season, and reduce the frequency to every two months during the dormant season. Alternatively, you may use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure to provide the needed nutrients.
Pruning
Bidens schimperi does not require frequent pruning, but it may benefit from some light pruning to remove dead or wilted leaves and stems. Prune the plant after the flowering season ends to encourage healthier growth the following season.
Use clean pruning shears to avoid introducing infections to the plant, and disinfect the tools after use. Avoid cutting back the plant entirely, as this may impair its ability to bloom in the future.
Propagation of Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp.
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp., commonly known as Schimper's beggarticks, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family. It is native to Ethiopia and Eritrea and is generally propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. can be collected from the plant when the blooms have begun to fade and the seed heads have turned brown. The seeds can be sown directly in a well-draining potting mix in a shallow container. Water the container regularly and place it in a spot with bright, indirect light. Germination occurs within two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly in the garden.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. Choose a healthy and mature stem and cut a 4-5 inch section from it. Dip the bottom end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light. Roots will develop within a few weeks. Once the cutting has developed a strong root system, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp. Plant
Bidens schimperi Sch.Bip. ex Walp., commonly known as the African marigold, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is highly valued for its beautiful, bright yellow flowers and its ability to repel pests and insects. However, like any other plant, Bidens schimperi is also susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth, development, and overall health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect the Bidens schimperi plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease manifests as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers, affecting the plant's ability to photosynthesize and reducing its yield. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and stems, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering.
Fusarium wilt is another fungal disease that can affect the Bidens schimperi plant. This disease causes the leaves to yellow, wilt, and eventually die, leading to stunted growth and poor yield. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy any infected plant materials, rotate crops, and use disease-resistant plant varieties.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect the Bidens schimperi plant is the aphid. These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl, yellow, and eventually drop off. To manage aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings, and remove and discard any heavily infested plant parts.
The spider mite is another pest that can affect the Bidens schimperi plant. These small arachnids feed on the plant's sap, causing it to appear yellow and speckled. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with a strong burst of water to dislodge them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove any heavily infested plant parts.
By implementing proper disease and pest management practices, the Bidens schimperi plant can grow healthy and strong, producing beautiful flowers and a bountiful yield.
