Three-lobe Beggar-ticks

bidens tripartita

Also known as: ["Three-lobed Tickseed","Three-parted Beggar-ticks"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Bidens Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A herbaceous annual plant with yellow flowers and three-parted leaves, often found in wetlands and disturbed areas.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Bidens
Botanical Name: Bidens tripartita

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed near water source or in a container with consistent moisture
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • 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.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: Every 4–6 weeks during growing season; lightly prune year-round as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid waterlogging.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-drained loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); adaptable to cooler temperatures but sensitive to frost.

Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from frost.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

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

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, water lightly.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

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

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Sharp pruners, clean scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in 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

Choose new pot, prepare soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in shade temporarily.

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 even moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the root zone.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once 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; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before feeding, avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Bidens tripartita can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Bidens tripartita is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Bidens tripartita may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Bidens tripartita is typically caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, resulting in decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Bidens tripartita. The plant does not pose a significant threat but can cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Prevent cats from ingesting the plant. Seek veterinary advice if symptoms occur.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Bidens tripartita seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Bidens tripartita contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of seeds and roots. Wash hands after handling the plant.
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 tripartita toxic to pets?

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

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is this plant considered a weed?

A: Yes, it is often classified as a weed due to its invasive nature.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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