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Description
Bidens connata, commonly known as Swamp Beggar-ticks, is a native wildflower found in North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and can grow up to 6 feet tall. This plant is known for its vibrant yellow flowers and needle-like leaves. The Swamp Beggar-ticks is considered an annual or short-lived perennial plant that blooms from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Appearance
The Bidens connata plant has a tall, slender stem covered in needle-like leaves. The leaves are 3-5 inches long and 1/8 inch wide, with a rough texture. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like, with 8-13 petals surrounding a yellow center. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide, making it an excellent choice for adding height to a garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Bidens connata is a low-maintenance plant that prefers moist soil and full sun. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, but it thrives in rich, loamy soil. Here are some care tips to ensure your Swamp Beggar-ticks thrives:
Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water once or twice a week, or as needed to keep the soil evenly moist.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Soil: Bidens connata prefers rich, moist soil with good drainage. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or sand to improve drainage.
Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to thrive. Plant it in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Bidens connata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bidens connata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common problems to look out for include:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause distortion and discoloration of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Fungal Diseases: Powdery mildew and leaf spot can occur in humid or wet conditions. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent the spread of disease.
Habitat
Bidens connata is native to North America, where it can be found growing in wetlands, swamps, and along the edges of streams and ponds. It is an important food source for wildlife, including ducks and other waterfowl.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bidens connata a good choice for a rain garden?
A: Yes! Bidens connata is an excellent choice for a rain garden since it prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Q: Can I grow Bidens connata in a container?
A: While Bidens connata can be grown in a container, it may not reach its full size potential. Make sure the container is at least 12 inches deep and wide to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Do I need to deadhead Bidens connata?
A: Deadheading is not necessary, but it can encourage the plant to produce more flowers. If you choose to deadhead, remove spent blooms as soon as they begin to fade.
Q: Is Bidens connata deer-resistant?
A: Unfortunately, no. Bidens connata is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in your area.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Bidens connata:
- Bidens aristosa
- Bidens aurea
- Bidens bipinnata
- Bidens ferulifolia
- Bidens frondosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Bidens connata Muhl. ex Willd. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=BICON
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Bidens connata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b458
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2018). Bidens connata – Swamp Beggar-ticks. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/pdffiles/EP/EP23400.pdf
