Origin
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff, commonly known as the Ambae Island Beggarticks, is a species of plant that is indigenous to Vanuatu. More specifically, it is endemic to the island of Ambae, which is located in the South Pacific Ocean.
Common names
Aside from the Ambae Island Beggarticks, Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff is also commonly referred to as the Ambae Island Spanish needle, as well as the Ambae Island tickseed.
Uses
Traditionally, the Ambae Island Beggarticks have been used by the locals as a treatment for a variety of medical conditions. For example, it is believed to be effective in the treatment of diarrhea, stomach cramps, and vomiting. In addition to its medicinal value, this species of plant is also used in local ceremonies and rituals.
General Appearance
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff is a herbaceous plant that typically grows to a height of 1 to 1.5 meters. Its stems are green and have a slightly woody texture at the bottom. The leaves are green, alternate, oblong to elliptic, and can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are yellow and are arranged in small clusters at the ends of branches. The fruit is an achene, which is a dry, one-seeded fruit with a hard outer layer.
Light Requirements
Bidens steppia var. ambaeensis typically requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. The plant can still survive in partially shaded areas, but its growth potential will be significantly limited. Thus, it's best to plant it in an area that receives ample sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Bidens steppia var. ambaeensis is between 60 °F and 80 °F. If the temperature drops below 50°F, the plant may suffer, and its growth will slow down. If the temperature exceeds 85°F, the plant may experience heat stress or wilt due to dry conditions. Therefore, it's important to ensure the temperature remains within the ideal range.
Soil Requirements
Bidens steppia var. ambaeensis requires well-drained soil to thrive. It grows best in soils that are relatively sandy or loamy. These soil types provide adequate drainage and prevent the roots from becoming waterlogged. Additionally, the soil should be slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. It's also important to ensure the soil remains moist, but not saturated, at all times.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff prefers a full sun or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. It can survive in sandy, loamy, or clay soils with a pH range of acidic to slightly alkaline. This plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in spring or early summer after the danger of frost has passed. For stem cuttings, take cuttings from healthy stems in spring or early summer and root them in well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate periods of drought once established. Water the plant deeply once a week during dry spells and reduce watering during rainy periods. It is best to water Bidens steppia var. ambaeensis at the base to avoid wetting its foliage, which may encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff requires moderate fertilization to promote healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, to the soil once every two weeks during the growing season, starting in spring. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.
Pruning
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff requires minimal pruning. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Pinch back weak or leggy stems to promote bushier growth and pinch back stems that have become too long for the desired shape and size. Cut back any diseased or damaged stem to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff, also known as the Beggartick, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Africa and is commonly found in Ethiopia, Somalia, and Tanzania. The plant has attractive yellow flowers that bloom from July to October and is widely grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. Propagation of B. steppia can be done through two main methods: seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The easiest and simplest way to propagate B. steppia is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from the plant when the flowers fade and dry out. The harvested seeds can be sown immediately or stored until the optimal planting time. The best time to plant the seeds is during the rainy season when the soil is moist and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and spaced at least 15 cm apart. It is critical to water the seeds regularly to maintain moisture levels. Germination takes about 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to pots or beds after 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through cuttings
B. steppia can also be propagated through cuttings taken from the mother plant. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the active growth period. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should have at least one node. The lower leaves should be removed to reduce moisture loss. The cuttings should be planted in a well-drained rooting medium and should be kept moist and warm. High humidity should be maintained to prevent excessive moisture loss. The cuttings should root in about 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted to pots or beds after 6-8 weeks.
Disease Management
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Rust: This fungal disease is identified by orange or brownish pustules on the leaves and stems. To manage rust, apply fungicides containing myclobutanil or propiconazole.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that forms a powdery, white layer on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, prune affected parts and avoid overhead watering. Also, apply fungicides containing trifloxystrobin or myclobutanil.
- Black spot: This fungal disease creates black spots on leaves, leading to defoliation. Manage black spot by pruning affected parts and using suitable fungicides, such as myclobutanil or chlorothalonil.
To prevent the spread of these diseases, avoid introducing infected plants to the garden and maintain proper spacing between plants to promote air circulation.
Pest Management
Bidens steppia (Steetz) Sherff var. ambaeensis (Hiern) Sherff is also susceptible to pests, including:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To control aphids, release natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Alternatively, apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves, causing holes and defoliation. Control caterpillars by manually removing them or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water, release natural predators such as predatory mites and lacewings, or apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Regularly inspect the plants for signs of pest infestation and take swift action to prevent the spread to other plants. Use organic management methods where possible and follow the instructions on the pesticide label.
