Overview of Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff, commonly known as Ethiopian beggarticks, is a flowering plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Ethiopia and Eastern Africa, and is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions.
General Appearance
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff is an erect, herbaceous annual or perennial plant that grows up to 1 m tall. The stem is green or purplish and has small prickles, while the leaves are simple, oppositely arranged, and pinnately divided with toothed edges. The flowers are yellow or orange and form dense clusters of small disc florets that are surrounded by two to five ray florets. The plant produces achene fruits that are 3-4 mm long and have two barbed awns that stick to clothing and fur, giving the plant its common name of beggarticks.
Uses
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant extract is used to treat malaria and fever, while the leaves are used as a poultice for wounds, skin infections, and dermatitis. In addition, the plant is used as a livestock feed and for soil conservation, as it helps reduce soil erosion and improves soil health.
The plant is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping due to its vibrant flowers. In some regions, the plant has become invasive and spreads rapidly, making it a troublesome weed in gardens and fields.
Light Requirements
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica thrives in full sunlight, making it a perfect plant for gardens or open fields with plenty of exposure to natural light. This plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature
This plant can grow in a range of temperatures. However, it prefers warm temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It can be grown in regions with cooler temperatures, but the growth rate may be slower.
Soil Requirements
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica prefers well-draining, fertile, and moist soil. The soil's pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.5. It can also grow in sandy soils, but the plant requires frequent watering in such soils.
It is important to note that the plant cannot grow in waterlogged or poorly drained soil, as this can lead to the development of root rot. The soil should be loosened to a depth of at least 6-8 inches prior to planting. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure can help improve soil fertility and water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff is a perennial plant that requires well-draining, slightly acidic soil for ideal growth. It prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. If starting from seeds, sow the seeds in trays or pots, then transplant them into the garden once they sprout. Cuttings can be taken in the spring or fall and planted directly into the soil.
Watering Needs
This plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot, dry season. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to strike a balance. As a rule of thumb, water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water deeply and thoroughly, making sure the water reaches the roots.
Fertilization
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to encourage flowering. Repeat the feeding every four to six weeks throughout the growing season.
Pruning
Bidens setigera (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff var. abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff requires pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and trim back the remaining branches by about one-third of their length. This will encourage new growth and a fuller, more compact shape. Prune spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season.
Propagation of Bidens setigera var. abyssinica
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica, commonly called Ethiopian beggarticks, can be propagated in a number of ways. The following are the most common methods:
Seed Propagation
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica can be propagated from seeds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil during the rainy season. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to help with germination. The seeds should be covered with a very thin layer of soil and watered gently. Germination should occur within two weeks. Thinning may be necessary to ensure that each seedling has enough space to grow.
Cuttings Propagation
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica can also be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, select healthy stems from the parent plant and cut them into 10-15 cm pieces. Remove the leaves from the bottom of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot containing a mixture of compost and sand. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded location. After about a month, the cutting should form roots.
Division Propagation
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica can also be propagated through division. To do this, dig up the parent plant and gently divide it into smaller clumps. Each clump should have roots and a few stems. Plant each clump in a new location and keep the soil moist. Transplanting should be done during the rainy season to ensure that the plant has enough water to establish in its new location.
Disease Management
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica is generally tough and resistant to diseases. However, some diseases can still affect the plant; these include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves, and it can be caused by bacteria or fungus. To manage this disease, you can remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungus that covers the leaves with a white powdery substance. You can manage this disease by keeping the plant spaced out to allow for good air circulation, and using fungicides to control the disease.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, you can reduce watering and improve soil drainage.
Pest Management
Bidens setigera var. abyssinica is relatively resistant to pests. However, some common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Spider Mites: These pests are small and difficult to see, but they can cause significant damage to the plant's leaves. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with water to dislodge them and using insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
- Aphids: Aphids can feed on the plant's leaves and spread diseases. You can manage these pests by removing affected leaves and using insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
