Origin and Common Names
Bidens zairensis Lisowski is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is endemic to Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is commonly referred to as "bara" or "kozo" in the local dialects.General Appearance
Bidens zairensis Lisowski is a remarkable plant characterized by its vigorous growth and attractive appearance. It grows up to one meter tall and produces numerous stems that branch out to form a bushy appearance. The leaves are simple, opposite, and vary in size from 4-10 centimeters long. The plant produces yellow flowers, which bloom from June to August, that are borne in clusters on the top of each stem. It produces oblong-shaped fruits that are 6-7 millimeters long and feature a beak-shaped tip.Uses
Bidens zairensis Lisowski has various medicinal uses in the African traditional medicine. It contains essential oils, tannins, and flavonoids that are used to treat a variety of health conditions, including malaria, diarrhea, and stomach aches. The plant's roots and leaves are also used to treat snake bites and promote wound healing. Moreover, the species is often cultivated as an ornamental plant and used in landscaping due to its attractive flowers and bushy growth habit. In conclusion, Bidens zairensis Lisowski is a unique and attractive plant native to Africa with various medicinal and ornamental uses.Light Requirements
Bidens zairensis Lisowski requires abundant sunlight to grow, thrive and produce flowers. The plant does well in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures with a range of 20°C to 30°C. It is unable to tolerate frost and low temperatures. Hence, it is best grown in zones where the temperature does not drop below 10°C. Bidens zairensis Lisowski can grow in both humid and dry locations, but it cannot tolerate extreme heat and drought conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils, either sandy or clay, but with the right organic matter for optimal growth. Cultivate the soil to loosen it and to remove any weeds. Mix the soil with organic matter, such as compost or manure, to improve drainage and fertility. The pH of the soil is not a limiting factor for this plant, as it is forgiving and adaptable to a wide range of soil types.
Cultivation Methods:
Bidens zairensis Lisowski is a native African plant that prefers moderate temperatures and is suited for tropical and sub-tropical climates. It thrives in well-drained soils that contain organic matter and require good aeration. The plant grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers temperatures between 20°C to 30°C. It can be propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Watering Needs:
Bidens zairensis Lisowski requires moderate watering, and the soil must not be waterlogged, as it may cause root rot. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week, ensuring that water penetrates deep into the soil. During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering. It is sensitive to drought and may require additional watering to survive.
Fertilization:
The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and flowering. Apply slow-release fertilizer once every three months, specifically formulated for flowering plants, to promote abundant blooming. It is best to limit nitrogen application as high nitrogen content may limit flowering.
Pruning:
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant in good shape, especially if grown as a hedge or border plant. Deadhead the flowers regularly to promote new growth and encourage repeat blooming. It is also important to remove any diseased, damaged, or yellow leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Bidens Zairensis Lisowski
Bidens zairensis Lisowski, commonly known as the Burton's goldfields, is a species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae. It is native to Angola and is grown as an ornamental plant in various parts of the world. The plant can be propagated by different methods.
Propagation by Seeds
Bidens Zairensis Lisowski can be propagated by seeds. After the plant blooms, seeds can be collected from the flowerheads, which should be dry before detaching them. The seeds can then be stored in a cool, dry and dark place to maintain their viability for several years. When ready to plant, the seeds should be placed on top of the soil, watered, and covered with a thin layer of soil or vermiculite. The seedlings should appear in one to two weeks, and the plants can be transplanted after they have grown to a sufficient size.
Propagation by Cuttings
Bidens zairensis Lisowski can be propagated by cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the plant during the growing season. Take cuttings of about 5 inches long and remove the leaves from the lower half of the cuttings. Dip the base of the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and insert them into pots filled with moist potting soil. The cutting should root within a few weeks, after which the plants can be transferred to larger containers or directly planted into the ground.
Propagation by Division
Bidens zairensis Lisowski can also be propagated by division. This process involves dividing the root ball of a mature plant into smaller sections. The plant should be dug up carefully to avoid damaging the roots. With a sharp knife, divide the root ball into sections, each with some roots and a stem. Each section should be planted in a pot or directly in the ground and watered thoroughly.
Overall, Bidens zairensis Lisowski can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division. These methods can all be successful, and the choice of method depends on the grower's needs and preferences.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens zairensis Lisowski
Bidens zairensis Lisowski is generally a hardy plant, but it is still susceptible to several types of diseases and pests. Here is a detailed look at the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: Bidens zairensis Lisowski is susceptible to fungal diseases like leaf spots, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases usually occur due to overwatering, poor drainage, or damp conditions.
Management: The best way to manage fungal diseases is to avoid overwatering and provide proper drainage. If the plant is already infected, you can use a fungicide or remove the affected parts of the plant.
Viral Diseases: Bidens zairensis Lisowski is also susceptible to viral diseases, which can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and distorted flowers.
Management: Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases in plants. The best way to manage them is to prevent them from spreading by removing and destroying any infected plants.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing leaves to turn yellow and curl up.
Management: You can manage aphids by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to the garden.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that cause stippling on the leaves of plants and weaken them.
Management: To manage thrips, you can use sticky traps or insecticidal soap. You can also introduce natural predators like predatory mites or minute pirate bugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause webbing on the leaves of plants and suck out their juices.
Management: You can manage spider mites by using insecticidal soap, neem oil or introducing natural predators like predatory mites.
With proper care and management, you can keep Bidens zairensis Lisowski healthy and thriving, even in the face of diseases and pests.
