Origin
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff, also known as Pale Swamp-Marigold Beggarticks is a herbaceous plant native to North America. It is commonly found in wetlands and moist soils, along the margins of streams, ponds and lakes from western Oregon to California and east to Utah.
Common Names
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff is commonly referred to as Pale Swamp-Marigold Beggarticks, Pale Swamp Beggarticks, or California Beggarticks.
Uses
The plant has several uses, such as landscaping, as it grows well in moist soils and adds color to a garden. It is also a good option for wetland restoration projects. Some Native American tribes in the western United States have used the plant for medicinal purposes. Specifically, the Cahuilla tribe in California has used the roots of the plant to treat diarrhea, while the Pomo tribe has used the roots to treat rheumatism.
General Appearance
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are alternate and pinnately compound, with three to seven lance-shaped leaflets. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from July to September. The flowers are about 2 to 3 cm in diameter and are composed of both ray and disk flowers. The fruit is an achene that is about 4 to 5 mm long and is topped with two or three barbed awns, which aids in seed dispersal.
Overall, Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff is a beautiful, tall, and yellow-flowered plant that thrives in wetlands and moist soils. It has been used for medicinal purposes and is a popular choice among gardeners for its attractive appearance.Light Requirements
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff prefers to grow in an area that receives full sun to light shade. This plant can tolerate a considerable amount of sunlight, making it an excellent choice for outdoor plantings in sunny locations.
Temperature Requirements
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff grows well in a wide range of temperatures. It can survive in temperatures ranging from 10°C to 32°C and can tolerate occasional cold snaps or frost during the winter season. It is a hardy plant that can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff prefers well-drained, fertile soil. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and it should have a neutral to slightly acidic pH. The plant can also grow in sandy soil and clay soil, but it will require additional watering and fertilization to thrive. It is essential to add organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility.
Cultivation Methods
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff, commonly known as the Colorado tickseed sunflower, is a perennial plant that is native to the western United States. These plants thrive in full sun and well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. It is best to sow the seeds indoors during the spring season or directly in the ground in the fall, as these plants have a long growing season.
Watering Needs
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff requires consistent watering during the growing season. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged, and it is best to water the plants in the morning to avoid excess moisture at night. Monitor the plants during periods of drought and increase the frequency of watering if necessary.
Fertilization
These plants do not require much fertilization. It is best to add a balanced fertilizer in the spring and then again during the mid-summer growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to leggy growth and decreased flowering.
Pruning
Pruning Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff is not necessary, but some gardeners prefer to deadhead the spent flowers to encourage additional blooms. Deadheading is the process of removing faded flowers before they can set seed. This will redirect the plant’s energy to producing new growth and more flowers. You can cut the plant down to the ground in the late fall after the foliage has died back naturally.
Propagation of Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff can be propagated via several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings and division of the root system.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff can be sown directly in the ground during the spring after the last frost. The soil should be moist and well-draining for optimal germination. The seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately 1/8 inch and should be spaced approximately 8 to 12 inches apart. Thin the seedlings to a spacing of 12 to 15 inches once they are large enough to handle.
Stem Cuttings
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff can also be propagated via stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem that is free from disease and pests, and cut a 6-inch section from the plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture, and keep it moist until new growth appears.
Division of the Root System
Propagation via division of the root system is another option for Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff. Dig up the entire plant, and carefully separate the root system into smaller sections. Replant each section in a well-draining soil mixture, making sure that the root system is covered with soil. Water thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.
Disease Management
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The following are some common diseases that affect the plant:
1. Powdery mildew: This fungal disease often appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant's overall health. Management strategies for powdery mildew include removing infected plant parts, keeping the foliage dry, and applying fungicides as needed.
2. Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. This disease appears as small, brown-orange spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation. Management strategies for rust include removing infected plant parts, keeping the foliage dry, and applying fungicides as needed.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a disease caused by soil-borne pathogens. It can cause the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. Management strategies for root rot include improving soil drainage, avoiding overwatering, and removing infected plants as soon as possible.
Pest Management
Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff is also prone to pest infestations that can impact its growth and productivity. The following are some common pests that affect the plant:
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and transmit plant viruses. Management strategies for aphids include using insecticidal soap, releasing beneficial insects like ladybugs, and removing infected plant parts as needed.
2. Thrips: Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed on the foliage of the plant. They can cause silver or bronze streaks on the leaves and deformity in the growth. Management strategies for thrips include using insecticidal soap, releasing beneficial insects like predatory mites, and removing infected plant parts as needed.
3. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on the underside of the plant's leaves. They can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves and also produce webs. Management strategies for spider mites include using insecticidal soap, releasing beneficial insects like predatory mites, and removing infected plant parts as needed.
Regular monitoring and proper sanitation practices can help prevent the spread of diseases and pests in Bidens leptolepis Sherff forma pallida Sherff. It is important to identify the problem as soon as possible and take appropriate action to limit the damage.
