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Description
Bidens Polylepis, also known as Many-Scaled Beggarticks, is an herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of around 1.5 feet. This plant produces numerous yellow flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Appearance
Bidens Polylepis has a slender stem that is covered in tiny hairs. The leaves are alternate, serrated, and have a lanceolate shape. They are also covered in tiny hairs and can grow up to 4 inches long. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of around 1 inch. The plant produces numerous seeds that are surrounded by small scales or barbs.
Care Guide
For Bidens Polylepis to thrive, it requires a well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 10. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry periods, and fertilize it every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bidens Polylepis is relatively disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot if the plant is grown in humid conditions. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can also infest the plant but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Bidens Polylepis is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in wetlands, disturbed areas, and along roadsides. It prefers moist soils and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Bidens Polylepis be grown indoors?
A: No, Bidens Polylepis is an outdoor plant and cannot tolerate indoor conditions.
Q: How often should Bidens Polylepis be fertilized?
A: Bidens Polylepis should be fertilized every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best way to control pests on Bidens Polylepis?
A: Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control pests on Bidens Polylepis.
Q: What is the hardiness zone range for Bidens Polylepis?
A: Bidens Polylepis can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
- Bidens Aristosa
- Bidens Aurea
- Bidens Bidentoides
- Bidens Pilosa
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/bidpol/all.html
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=BIPO2
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BIPO2
