Tickseed Sunflower

bidens frondosa

Also known as: ["Cursed-Button","Devil's Needle","Stickseed"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Bidens Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual herbaceous plant native to North America, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers and distinctive seed heads with barbed hooks.

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 frondosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or containers in partial sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
  • 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; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning in early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; provide shade during peak heat.

Watering

every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-drained, loamy soil with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates heat but may require more water in high temperatures.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting; use a mild rooting hormone powder or gel.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags (for humidity).

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors; disinfect tools before use.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or yellowing leaves; cut just above a leaf node; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water deeply to encourage root growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the soil without splashing leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or bud drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop.

Solution: Protect from frost; move potted plants indoors; use a heat mat for seedlings in cold climates.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, or reduced flowering.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Bidens frondosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Bidens frondosa can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Bidens frondosa are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Bidens frondosa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds of Bidens frondosa. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of the seeds of Bidens frondosa may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The irritants in the seeds can cause discomfort but are generally not life-threatening.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially the seeds. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Bidens frondosa, commonly known as beggar's ticks, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The seeds are the primary toxic part, containing irritants that may lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds. Wash hands after handling the plant to prevent accidental ingestion.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Bidens frondosa toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: How does Bidens frondosa spread?

A: It spreads via seeds with barbed hooks that attach to animals and clothing.

Q: Does Bidens frondosa require much care?

A: No, it is very low maintenance and thrives in various conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 5–7 days during active
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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