Nodding Beggar-ticks
bidens cernua
Also known as: ["Beggarticks","Stick-tights"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to North America, known for its yellow flowers and barbed seeds that cling to clothing.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Bidens |
| Botanical Name: | Bidens cernua |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, near water sources
- Suitable For:
- 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 potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include peat moss for moisture retention.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; deadheading spent flowers as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun, especially in summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh topsoil annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); sensitive to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, 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 to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme temperatures; bud drop in stress conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause leaf drop, slow growth, and potential frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; water before feeding; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBidens cernua is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBidens cernua is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBidens cernua contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bidens cernua toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How should I care for Bidens cernua?
A: It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade, with moderate watering.
Q: Does Bidens cernua attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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