Bidens
Bidens ferulifolia
Bidens is a cheerful annual with daisy-like flowers that bloom continuously from summer to frost. Known for its resilience and abundant blooms, it symbolizes perseverance, joy, and sunny disposition.
Asteraceae (Daisy family)
Late spring through frost (May-October), continuous blooming
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: gaillardias and osteospermums also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Bidens represents unwavering optimism and the ability to bloom continuously despite challenging conditions. Its persistent flowering from summer through frost symbolizes endurance with joy and the capacity to maintain a positive outlook through difficult times.Botanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; best flowering in full sun
Water
Moderate water needs; drought tolerant once established but blooms best with regular watering
Soil
Well-drained, Fertile, Moist but not waterlogged, Tolerates poor soils
Expert Growing Tips
Self-cleaning flowers require no deadheading
Excellent heat and humidity tolerance
Pinch growing tips when young to encourage bushier growth
Very low maintenance once established
Can trail up to 3 feet, making it excellent for baskets
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Container gardens and hanging baskets
- Annual bedding and borders
- Heat-tolerant summer displays
- Pollinator gardens (attracts butterflies and bees)
- Ground cover for difficult areas
Traditional Uses
- Some traditional uses in folk medicine for minor wounds
- Related species used historically as herbal remedies
- Primarily grown for ornamental purposes today
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Bidens
do bidens flowers need deadheading?
No, bidens are self-cleaning flowers that don't require deadheading. Spent blooms drop naturally while new flowers continue to form throughout the season.
are bidens heat tolerant?
Yes, bidens are extremely heat and drought tolerant once established, making them perfect for hot summer gardens and containers in full sun.
do bidens come back every year?
Bidens are annuals in most climates, so they complete their life cycle in one year, though they may self-seed in favorable conditions.
what does bidens flower symbolize?
Bidens symbolizes perseverance, joy, and sunny disposition, reflecting its ability to bloom continuously from summer through frost with minimal care.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Gaillardia
Gaillardia × grandiflora (and other spp.)
Gaillardia, commonly known as blanket flower, is a vibrant daisy-like perennial that blooms from spring to fall. These drought-tolerant plants symbolize warmth, optimism, and resilience.
Osteospermum
Osteospermum spp.
Osteospermum, known as African Daisy, produces vibrant daisy-like flowers with distinctive dark centers. These cheerful blooms symbolize joy, new beginnings, and the bright beauty of Africa.
Gazania
Gazania rigens and other spp.
Gazania are vibrant daisy-like flowers native to South Africa, known for their bold colors and sun-loving nature. They symbolize optimism, wealth, and the celebration of life.