Bidens aurea aka Arizona Beggarticks

Bidens aurea produces showy daisy-like flower heads from late summer through autumn, typically July to October depending on climate. Each flower head measures up to 7.5 cm (3 inches) across and features 5-6 elliptical golden yellow ray florets surrounding a central disc of tubular yellow flowers with distinctive brown staminal tubes. Cultivated varieties may also display white or bicolored yellow-white rays. Deadheading spent flowers will extend the blooming period well into late autumn.

Bidens aurea can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings. For seed propagation, surface-sow seeds in spring in a greenhouse or indoors, as they need light to germinate. Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost. Alternatively, take stem cuttings in spring or autumn—simply cut 10-15 cm sections from healthy stems, remove lower leaves, and root in moist potting mix. Division of established clumps in spring is also possible.

Bidens aurea benefits from regular deadheading of spent flowers to extend the blooming period into late autumn. Beyond deadheading, minimal pruning is required. In colder climates, the plant may die back in winter—cut back dead growth in early spring before new growth emerges. For bushier plants, you can pinch back growing tips in early summer to encourage branching.

Bidens aurea thrives outdoors in USDA zones 7-10 (UK zone 8). Plant in full sun in moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil. It tolerates exposed and sheltered positions with south, west, or east-facing aspects. In colder areas (below zone 7), mulch heavily in autumn for winter protection, or lift plants before the first frosts and overwinter in a frost-free location. The plant is drought-tolerant once established but performs best with consistent moisture.

Several cultivated varieties of Bidens aurea are available for gardens. 'Hannay's Lemon Drop' is a popular cultivar featuring bushy growth up to 1m tall with finely-divided leaves and daisy-like flowers with lemon-yellow petals tipped with white around a gold central disc. Other garden forms may display solid white or bicolored yellow and white ray florets rather than the pure golden yellow of the wild species.

Bidens aurea is pollinated by insects. The hermaphroditic flowers (containing both male and female organs) are highly attractive to a wide variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and other insects. The daisy-like flower structure with prominent yellow ray florets and tubular disc flowers provides easy access to nectar and pollen.

Bidens aurea is generally pest and disease-free according to the Royal Horticultural Society. Its robust nature and natural resistance make it a low-maintenance garden plant. Occasionally, aphids may appear on new growth in spring, and slugs or snails might target young seedlings. Good air circulation helps prevent any fungal issues. Overall, this is a trouble-free plant that rarely requires treatment for pests or diseases.

Bidens aurea is hardy to approximately -5 to -10°C (14-23°F), making it suitable for USDA zones 7-10. It performs best in warm temperatures during the growing season but can tolerate light frosts. In areas with colder winters, the plant may die back to ground level but will regrow in spring if adequately mulched. In regions colder than zone 7, lift plants before the first hard frosts and store them frost-free over winter.

In spring, divide established clumps if needed and plant out new specimens after the last frost. During summer, water regularly to maintain moist soil and deadhead spent flowers. In autumn, apply a thick mulch around the base to protect roots from winter cold—RHS specifically recommends mulching in autumn.

Bidens aurea has very limited edibility. PFAF rates it 1 out of 5 for edible uses, noting that the leaves are possibly used as a tea substitute. However, the plant is primarily ornamental and not intended for consumption. While not toxic, it offers minimal culinary value compared to other Bidens species like B. pilosa, which is widely consumed as a leafy green in Africa and Asia.

Bidens aurea is adaptable to various humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements. In its native habitat along streams and marshes in Arizona and Mexico, it experiences both dry desert air and more humid riparian conditions. As an outdoor garden plant, it tolerates typical ambient humidity without any special considerations. The key factor is maintaining adequate soil moisture rather than atmospheric humidity.

Bidens aurea grows well in moderately fertile soil without heavy fertilization. RHS describes its soil needs as 'moderately fertile', suggesting it doesn't require rich conditions. A light application of balanced, organic fertilizer in spring can support healthy growth and flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers. In most garden soils with reasonable fertility, additional feeding is unnecessary.

Arizona Beggarticks is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Arizona Beggarticks’s native range is Southern N. America from Mexico south to Guatemala in Central America.

Arizona Beggarticks should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Arizona Beggarticks loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Arizona Beggarticks requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Arizona Beggarticks will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.