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Description
Bidens Trichosperma, commonly known as Hairy Beggarticks, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as Florida, Texas, and California. This plant is an annual or biennial herb that grows between 1 to 3 feet tall. It has hairy stems that are green in color and can have a reddish tint. The leaves are alternate, toothed, and covered with stiff hairs. The flowers are small, yellow, and have 8-12 ray florets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bidens |
Appearance
The Hairy Beggarticks plant has a bushy appearance due to its hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are lanceolate, meaning they are long and narrow with pointed tips. The flowers are small and yellow, with 8-12 ray florets. The plant blooms from mid-summer to early fall, producing a profusion of flowers. The fruit is an achene, which is a dry, one-seeded fruit that is enclosed in a hard outer layer.
Care Guide
Watering: Bidens Trichosperma needs regular watering during the growing season, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained and fertile soil. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loam, or clay soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can affect its growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones: Bidens Trichosperma is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate some frost, but it is best to protect it during cold winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Beggarticks plant is generally pest-free. However, it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If the plant is already infected, it can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Bidens Trichosperma is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers moist to wet soils and can tolerate some flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bidens Trichosperma toxic to pets?
A: There are no reports of Bidens Trichosperma being toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants to avoid any potential harm.
Q: How often should I fertilize Bidens Trichosperma?
A: It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Bidens Trichosperma grow in containers?
A: Yes, Bidens Trichosperma can be grown in containers. However, it is important to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth and provides good drainage.
Q: How do I propagate Bidens Trichosperma?
A: Bidens Trichosperma can be propagated by seeds. The seeds can be sown directly in the garden in the spring or started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date.
Related Plants
- Bidens Aristosa
- Bidens Frondosa
- Bidens Pilosa
- Bidens Polylepis
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=BITR3
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/beggarticks/growing-beggarticks-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/bidens-trichosperma-hairy-beggarticks
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280759
