Contents
Description
Bidens Biternata, commonly known as Spanish Needle or Two-needled Beggartick, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is an annual plant that has a characteristic needle-like shape, with a height of up to 3 feet. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that have a diameter of around 1 inch. It is a native of the southeastern United States and is often found growing in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Appearance
Bidens Biternata is an attractive plant with a unique appearance. It has a slender, branched stem that is covered in small, needle-like leaves. The leaves are green, and their edges are serrated. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are around 1 inch in diameter. The flowers have a center disc that is surrounded by several yellow ray petals. The plant blooms in the summer and fall and produces small, black seeds that are used for propagation.
Care Guide
Bidens Biternata is a relatively low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and requires regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but the plant will benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bidens Biternata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Bidens Biternata is native to the southeastern United States and is often found growing in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, fields, and waste areas. It is a common weed in many parts of the country and can be invasive in some areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bidens Biternata be grown indoors?
A: Bidens Biternata is best grown outdoors in full sun to partial shade. It is not well-suited for indoor cultivation.
Q: Can Bidens Biternata tolerate drought?
A: Bidens Biternata prefers moist soil and may not survive prolonged periods of drought. It should be watered regularly to maintain healthy growth.
Q: Can Bidens Biternata be grown in containers?
A: Bidens Biternata can be grown in containers, but it may require frequent watering and feeding to maintain healthy growth.
Q: Does Bidens Biternata attract pollinators?
A: Bidens Biternata is a good source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Bidens Alba
- Bidens Aristosa
- Bidens Aurea
- Bidens Bidentoides
- Bidens Bipinnata
References
- “Bidens Biternata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=262876&isprofile=0&basic=bidens%20biternata
- “Bidens Biternata.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 15 May 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BIBI2
- “Bidens Biternata (Lour.) Merr.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 15 May 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:186810-1
