Overview
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff is a plant species belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Africa and is commonly known as the slender-leaved beggarticks. The plant is widely used for medicinal purposes due to the presence of several phytochemicals with bioactive properties. It has a general appearance of a slender herbaceous plant with bright yellow flowers and serrated leaves.
Appearance
Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is a slender, erect herbaceous plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has a shallow root system and produces numerous stems from the base. The stems are angular and have a reddish-green color. The bright yellow flowerheads occur singly on peduncles and measure about 2 cm in diameter. The flowers have a tubular structure and consist of both ray and disc florets. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate and can grow up to 10cm in length and 2cm in width. The leaves are dark green, have serrated margins, and grow opposite to each other along the stems.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the slender-leaved beggarticks, narrow-leafed tickseed, or African beggarticks.
Uses
Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is widely used in traditional medicine due to the presence of bioactive phytochemicals. The plant has been used to treat various ailments such as malaria, bacterial infections, and skin diseases. The leaves and stem of the plant are crushed to make a poultice that is applied directly to the skin to treat wounds, rashes, and skin infections. The plant extract has also been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. Additionally, the plant is used as a natural dye, and the young leaves are consumed as a vegetable in certain African countries.
Growth Conditions for Bidens ternata var. angustifolia
Light: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, with at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. Insufficient light can result in weak stems and reduced flowering.
Temperature: Bidens ternata var. angustifolia grows best in warm, humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80°F (15-27°C) during the day and above 50°F (10°C) at night. Temperatures below 50°F can cause damage to the plant's leaves, while temperatures above 90°F (32°C) can cause wilting.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, fertile, and moist soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Soil that is too compacted or heavy can lead to poor root development and plant growth. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve drainage and provide nutrients.
Water: Bidens ternata var. angustifolia requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as excessive moisture can cause root rot and other diseases. The best way to water the plant is to provide deep irrigation to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilizer: The plant can benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Over-fertilization, however, can cause foliage burn and impair overall plant growth.
Pruning: Pruning is not necessary for Bidens ternata var. angustifolia. However, it can help maintain the plant's shape and promote flowering. Deadheading is also recommended to encourage continuous blooming.
Pests and Diseases: The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Proper plant spacing, regular watering, and maintaining good air circulation can help prevent these problems.
By following these growth conditions, Bidens ternata var. angustifolia can thrive and produce an abundance of flowers.
Cultivation methods
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff, commonly known as swampland beggartick, is a herbaceous perennial plant species that thrives in moist areas. It is commonly found in marshes, swamps, and wet meadows. When cultivating this plant, ensure you plant it in areas with moist soils and ample water supply.
Propagation methods for Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff include direct seeding, division, or transplanting. The recommended time for sowing seeds is in spring, while summer or fall is ideal for division and transplanting.
Watering needs
As a plant that thrives in moist environments, Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff requires frequent watering. Ensure that the soil around your plant is moist, but not waterlogged, at all times to promote optimal growth.
The frequency of watering should be determined by the environmental conditions in your area. Warmer and drier areas may require more frequent watering, while cooler and wetter areas may require less frequent watering.
Fertilization
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require excessive fertilization. However, you can boost growth and increase flower production by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, just before the growing season begins.
Small amounts of compost or aged manure can also be applied around the base of the plant to supply essential nutrients and improve soil quality.
Pruning
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff does not require frequent pruning. However, removing dead or damaged stems and spent flowers can help promote optimal growth and improve the overall appearance of your plant.
If your plant becomes too large or crowded, you can also perform selective pruning by removing a few of the oldest stems to promote new growth and maintain a manageable size.
Propagation of Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division propagation.
Seed propagation
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff plants can be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-drained, moist soil mix in late winter to early spring. The seeds must be sown at least 1/8 inch deep and kept moist. The germination time varies from 1 to 4 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff plants can also be propagated from cuttings. It is best done in the summer season. Take 3 to 4 inch cuttings from the new, green growth of the plant. These cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil mixed with sand or perlite, and kept moist. In about 4 to 6 weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division propagation
Bidens ternata (Chiov.) Sherff var. angustifolia Sherff plants can also be propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in the spring or fall. To propagate the plant via division, gently lift the plants from the ground and carefully divide the root ball. Each segment should have a good portion of the roots and some stems. These divisions can then be planted in well-drained, moist soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens ternata var. angustifolia
Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many diseases and pests. However, like any other plant, it is important to monitor the plant regularly for any potential problems.
Common Diseases
One of the common fungal diseases that can affect Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is powdery mildew. This disease can be identified by the white powdery growth on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. Fungal diseases can spread rapidly if the plants are overcrowded, over-fertilized, or not well ventilated. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected parts of the plant.
Another fungal disease that can affect the plant is septoria leaf spot. This disease can cause brown spots on leaves followed by yellowing and defoliation. The spread of the disease can be prevented by clearing debris from around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. A fungicide can be used to manage the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
One of the common pests that can affect Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is aphids. These insects can be identified by their small size and pear-shaped bodies. They feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting. To manage aphids, it is important to spray the plant with a strong jet of water to knock off the insects. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used to manage the infestation.
Another pest that can affect the plant is spider mites. These insects can be identified by the fine webbing they create on the plant. They feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, it is important to increase the humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. A miticide can also be used to manage the infestation.
In conclusion, Bidens ternata var. angustifolia is generally a hardy plant with few disease and pest problems. However, regular monitoring of the plant can help identify any potential problems and prevent their spread.
