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    Mid-Florida Research and Education Center

    Mid-Florida Research and Education Center

    Bidens alba

    Common beggarticks or spanish needle (Bidens alba) is a native Florida landscape weed. This species is indigenous to Central and South America and was introduced to North America. Their delicate, white flowers make them a favorite among pollinators and their leaves are used to brew tea in some cultures. Their flowers are also edible.

    • Scientific Name: Bidens alba
    • Common Name: Spanish needle, beggarticks 
    • Seasonality: All year but especially common during the warm, rainy season
    • Soil Type: Wet to dry
    • Toxicity: Non-Toxic
    • Most Commonly Found: Native areas and landscapes.
    • Biology and Management of Spanish Needles (Bidens spp.) in Ornamental Crop Production
    • St. John's County Extension Video: Identifying Spanish Needles
    • Relevant Resources

      Biology and Management of Spanish Needles (Bidens spp.) in Ornamental Crop Production

      USDA Plant Profile

      Florida Native Plant Society

      Invasive Species Compendium

    Photos of Bidens alba

     

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