Spanish Needles
bidens bipinnata
Also known as: ["Spanish Needles","Spanish Broom","Beggars-Ticks","Devil's Needles"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant with pinnately compound leaves and small, yellow, daisy-like flowers that produce hooked achenes, making them cling to clothing and animal fur.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Bidens |
| Botanical Name: | Bidens bipinnata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in intense sun; morning sun is preferable.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to avoid overfeeding; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity with a plastic bag.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below freezing; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBidens bipinnata is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with typical exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Dogs
Non-toxicBidens bipinnata is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with typical exposure.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Humans
Slightly ToxicBidens bipinnata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant amounts. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bidens bipinnata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why is Bidens bipinnata considered a weed?
A: It spreads easily via its hooked seeds that cling to clothing and fur, and it can quickly colonize disturbed areas.
Q: Does Bidens bipinnata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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