Contents
Description
Bidens Leptocephala, also known as the slenderbract beggarticks, is an annual herbaceous plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including marshes, swamps, and wetlands. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. Bidens Leptocephala is an excellent choice for gardeners who want to attract pollinators to their garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Appearance
Bidens Leptocephala grows up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-6 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. The leaves are serrated and have a rough texture. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are 0.5-1 inch wide. The flowers have a central disk surrounded by 5-8 ray flowers. The fruit of the plant is an achene that is 0.15-0.2 inches long and has two barbed awns that help it attach to fur or clothing.
Care Guide
Bidens Leptocephala is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Bidens Leptocephala:
- Water: Bidens Leptocephala prefers moist soil, so water it regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Bidens Leptocephala does not require fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Bidens Leptocephala prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Bidens Leptocephala needs full sun to grow and bloom properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Bidens Leptocephala is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bidens Leptocephala is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. Here are some tips to help you prevent and treat common pests and diseases:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If powdery mildew does occur, treat it with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If rust does occur, treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
Bidens Leptocephala is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including marshes, swamps, and wetlands. The plant can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bidens Leptocephala poisonous?
A: No, Bidens Leptocephala is not poisonous.
Q: Can Bidens Leptocephala tolerate drought?
A: No, Bidens Leptocephala prefers moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bidens Leptocephala?
A: Bidens Leptocephala does not require fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Bidens Leptocephala grow in containers?
A: Yes, Bidens Leptocephala can grow in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives full sun.
Related Plants
- Bidens Aristosa
- Bidens Pilosa
- Bidens Vulgata
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BILE8
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/beggarticks/slim-leaf-beggarticks.htm
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/bidens_leptocephala.shtml
