Description:
Bidens pilosa is an annual plant producing an erect, much-branched stem up to 100cm tall, though the plant can often flower, seed and then die when much smaller
As A Soil Indicator:
Very low Calcium , Very low Phosphorus, High Potassium, High Magnesium, High Manganese, High Boron
Life cycle:
Bidens pilosa normally behaves as an annual weed but at least one form, B. pilosa var. radiata, may behave as a perennial. One isolated plant can produce over 30,000 seeds, which are generally highly viable. Seeds germinate on the soil surface or in shallow soil (to a depth of 1 cm). Seeds at greater depths remain viable in the soil for many years. There is usually a great flush of germination after tillage of the soil. Seeds are widely dispersed through the fruits hook-like bristles that embed themselves in clothing and the fur of mammals and feathers of birds. They are also spread by wind, water and soil.
Beneficial:
Roots, leaves and seed have been reported to possess antibacterial, ant dysenteric, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimalarial, diuretic, hepato-protective and hypotensive activities.
Detrimental:
Bidens pilosa is a serious weed in many cropping systems in many countries where it reduces yield because of its fast growth and competitive abilities which include allopathic properties.
Family:
Asteraceae, which are known for attracting beneficial insects
Bidens pilosa is an annual plant producing an erect, much-branched stem up to 100cm tall, though the plant can often flower, seed and then die when much smaller
As A Soil Indicator:
Very low Calcium , Very low Phosphorus, High Potassium, High Magnesium, High Manganese, High Boron
Life cycle:
Bidens pilosa normally behaves as an annual weed but at least one form, B. pilosa var. radiata, may behave as a perennial. One isolated plant can produce over 30,000 seeds, which are generally highly viable. Seeds germinate on the soil surface or in shallow soil (to a depth of 1 cm). Seeds at greater depths remain viable in the soil for many years. There is usually a great flush of germination after tillage of the soil. Seeds are widely dispersed through the fruits hook-like bristles that embed themselves in clothing and the fur of mammals and feathers of birds. They are also spread by wind, water and soil.
Beneficial:
Roots, leaves and seed have been reported to possess antibacterial, ant dysenteric, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimalarial, diuretic, hepato-protective and hypotensive activities.
Detrimental:
Bidens pilosa is a serious weed in many cropping systems in many countries where it reduces yield because of its fast growth and competitive abilities which include allopathic properties.
Family:
Asteraceae, which are known for attracting beneficial insects
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