Overview
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff, commonly known as Ethiopian beggarticks is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to tropical Africa and is commonly found in Ethiopia, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Appearance
The plant has an erect stem that can grow up to a height of 60-80 cm. The leaves are opposite and pinnately compound with 3-5 lobes. The terminal lobe is the largest, and the lower lobes are smaller. The leaves have a rough texture and serrated margins. The flowers are yellow and are arranged in small heads, which are 1-1.5 cm in diameter. The fruit consists of achenes with barbed bristles that can attach to clothing or animal fur.
Common Names
Ethiopian beggarticks is known by several common names that vary depending on the region. In Ethiopia, it is known as "Tesmi," while in Uganda, it is called "Mtonya." In Tanzania, it is called "Senge-senge" or "Mpekatoni."
Uses
Ethiopian beggarticks has several medicinal properties. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat stomach pain, diarrhea, and fever. It is also used as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections. The leaves are boiled and the extract is used to wash wounds and as a mouthwash to treat oral thrush and toothache. The plant has also been used as an insecticide to kill mosquitoes.
Light Requirements
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff typically thrives in areas with full sun exposure. This plant requires at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to grow properly. It can also tolerate partial shade, but less light could promote leggy growth and reduce flower development.
Temperature Requirements
This species of Bidens typically thrives in warm weather conditions. It prefers temperatures in the range of 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. This plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, which can damage its leaves and flowers.
Soil Requirements
For optimum growth and development, Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff tends to prefer moist, well-drained soils. It will grow in a range of soils, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. However, this plant is known to do well in organic-rich soil with consistent moisture levels.
Water Requirements
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff requires moderate watering. The rule of thumb is to water this plant twice a week in dry weather conditions and once a week when it's rainy. However, it's essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff is native to Africa and is well adapted to warm temperate, subtropical, and tropical climates. The plant thrives in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter and full sunlight. It can be cultivated in both pots and the ground, and is generally propagated through seed or cuttings. For optimal growth, it's important to provide the plant with sufficient space to spread out and grow.
Watering Needs
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff requires consistent and adequate watering to thrive. It's important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other forms of plant stress. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, and provide additional water during dry periods. It's also important to avoid watering the leaves and flowers directly, as this can encourage disease and damage the plant.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential for optimal growth of Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to encourage healthy root and foliage development. Fertilize once every four to six weeks during the growing season, reducing the frequency during the winter dormant period. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it's important to follow the recommended application rates carefully.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff care. Regular pruning helps to control the plant's size and shape, as well as encourage new growth and flowering. Prune back any damaged, diseased, or dead branches, as well as any stems that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Cut back the plant by approximately one-third in the spring to encourage new growth and promote flowering. Regular deadheading of spent blooms is also essential to encourage continued blooming throughout the growing season.
Propagation Methods for Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff propagates through seeds and cuttings. The following are the propagation methods of the plant:
Propagation through Seeds
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff produces small, black seeds that can be planted directly into soil or flats. The seeds must be sowed at a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. It is advisable to start the seeds indoors in flats 4-6 weeks before the last frost date if the plant is to be grown in cooler climates.
The flats should be kept in a warm, well-lit area before transplanting. It is important to keep the soil moist but not soaked. Generally, the seeds will germinate within 10-14 days.
Propagation through Cuttings
Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. & Sherff forma abyssinica (Sch.Bip. ex Vatke) Sherff can be propagated through stem cuttings. It is advisable to take cuttings just before new growth appears in the spring.
Cuttings must be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long, with at least two nodes/leaves remaining on the stem. The bottom of the stem cutting must be dipped into rooting hormone powder, which will help it develop roots.
Once dipped, the stem cutting must be planted into a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. The potting mix must be covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity, which will ensure the success of the cutting's rooting process. The cutting should be removed from plastic cover after 3-4 weeks when there are signs of new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Bidens Biternata Forma Abyssinica
Bidens biternata forma abyssinica is a plant species that belongs to the family Asteraceae. Although this plant is considered relatively pest and disease resistant, it is still susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common problems that might affect this plant, along with management strategies:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that mainly attacks the leaves of the plant. It can be identified by the appearance of brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the infected leaves immediately and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the root system of the plant. It can be identified by the discoloration of the root and the wilting of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected plants and avoid over-watering the remaining plants.
3. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It can be identified by the powdery white substance that appears on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing weakening and distortion. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars are insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage this pest, it is recommended to handpick them or use biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
3. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that often go unnoticed until they have caused severe damage to the plant. They feed on the plant by piercing the cells and sucking out the contents, leaving behind a mottled appearance on the leaves. To manage this pest, it is recommended to regularly check for their presence and apply a miticide if necessary.
In conclusion, proper sanitation, regular monitoring, and timely intervention are essential for managing pests and diseases in Bidens biternata forma abyssinica. By adopting these management strategies, you can keep your plant healthy and productive.
