Bidens | A Folk Belief Flower That Colors the Fields in Gold

I introduce Bidens, a member of the Asteraceae family that produces vibrant yellow and orange blossoms. Because it is hardy, easy to grow, and flowers over a long period, I often recommend it for gardening and mixed plantings.

In this article, I explain in detail the basic information about Bidens, its cultural and historical background, and tips on cultivation.

Basic Information

• Scientific name: Bidens spp.
• Family: Asteraceae
• Origin: North America, Central and South America, Africa
• Appearance: Produces numerous small flowers, mainly in bright yellow. Some varieties bear orange or white flowers. Leaves are finely divided with a delicate shape, and stems spread flexibly.
• Blooming season: From spring to late autumn, and in warmer regions, even throughout winter.

世界各地での文化的特徴

Bidens, with its vivid colors and strong growth, has been regarded as a flower with symbolic meaning.

In North America, its bright yellow flowers resemble the sun, symbolizing “hope” and “vitality.” Among Indigenous peoples, fields covered with wild Bidens indicated fertile land and served as signs of environmental change.

In Europe, it was introduced in the 18th century as an ornamental plant and soon became popular as a garden accent. In France and England, it was valued as a hardy, low-maintenance flower, and it is still commonly planted in public flowerbeds and planters today.

In Asia, especially in China, it has long been cultivated as a garden plant. Its vivid colors are seen as symbols of “happiness” and “prosperity,” and it is often planted in traditional gardens and around temples.

Historical Background

Originally native to the Americas, Bidens spread to Europe after the 17th century.

In the 18th century, it gained popularity in France and England, leading to extensive breeding and diversification of flower colors.

By the 19th century, it had spread to Africa and Asia, becoming widely cultivated in warm climates.

In Japan, it was introduced in the Meiji period and planted in parks and private gardens. Recently, it has become popular in hanging baskets and container arrangements.

Gardening Advice

Bidens is hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for beginners. To enjoy its flowers for a long time, I recommend the following tips:

Sunlight

Prefers full sun, thriving in locations with at least half a day of direct light.

Watering

Though drought-tolerant, it grows best with moderate moisture. Water generously when the soil surface dries.

Soil

Choose well-draining soil. Mixing potting soil with perlite or leaf mold enhances growth.

Fertilizer

Apply liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to prolong blooming.

Pruning

Cutting back overgrown stems helps the plant stay compact and improves flowering.

Cold resistance

Prefers mild climates. In colder areas, move potted plants indoors before frost.

Conclusion

Bidens is a hardy Asteraceae plant with bright yellow and orange blossoms that can be enjoyed for a long season.

In North America, it is seen as a symbol of hope and vitality. In Europe, it has been valued as an ornamental plant since the 18th century. In Asia, it is often planted as a symbol of happiness and prosperity, with its vivid colors enhancing gardens and landscapes.