Beck's water-marigold (Bidens beckii)

Also known as: Water wheel plant, Beck's Water Marigold

Bidens beckii, commonly known as water marigold, is a perennial herb that can reach up to 2 meters in height. It thrives in stagnant or slow-moving water. The submerged leaves are finely divided and thread-like. The plant's stem usually extends about 15 cm above the water surface. Its above-water leaves are simple, oppositely arranged, lanceolate to ovate, and serrated, attaching directly to the stem without petioles.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Beck's water-marigold

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

10 cm to 15 cm

Spread

N/A

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 1-2 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Brown

Images of Beck's water-marigold

Quickly Identify Beck's water-marigold

This plant can be identified by its finely-divided leaves that look feather-like and float near the water\'s surface. Another key feature is its small, yellow flowers that emerge from the water.

Scientific Classification of Beck's water-marigold

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Beggarticks

Species

Beck's water-marigold

Planting and Growing of Beck's water-marigold

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 hours

Ideal Temperature

65-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Beck's water-marigold?

Bidens beckii, an aquatic plant, thrives in environments where water is abundant yet balanced. Aim to provide it around 500 ml per watering to maintain steady moisture. This ensures the roots can access already oxygenated water, preventing stagnation and being neither waterlogged nor parched.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Beck's water-marigold? ›

What should I do if my Beck's water-marigold is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Beck's water-marigold? ›

How to save an overwatered Beck's water-marigold? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Beck's water-marigold?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours daily

Partial sun with filtered light is ideal for Bidens beckii. Proper light facilitates photosynthesis, boosting growth, resilience, and encouraging vibrant blooms.

How much sun does Bidens beckii need? ›

What are the best ways to provide ideal light? ›

Benefits of ideal lighting for Bidens beckii ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Beck's water-marigold?

Ideal Temperature: 65 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Bidens beckii is generally between 65°F to 75°F. Within this range, the plant experiences optimal growth and development, with enhanced photosynthetic activity and cellular functions. Ensuring temperatures remain stable within this range can significantly reduce stress and support robust health.

What Soil is Best for Beck's water-marigold?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Bidens beckii thrives in well-drained soil as it allows for adequate water passage, preventing root rot and promoting optimal nutrient uptake. Such soil mimics the plant's natural environment, ensuring healthy growth. This plant benefits from nutrient-rich soil, which supports its vigorous growth and flowering. A balanced mix of macro and micronutrients fosters strong stems and vibrant foliage, enhancing its overall appearance. While the soil should drain well, it should also retain some moisture to support Bidens beckii during dry periods. This balance helps maintain consistent hydration and prevents stress.

How to Fertilize Beck's water-marigold?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Bidens beckii requires a careful balance of nutrients to thrive. Use a water-soluble fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio like 10-10-10, applying it at a concentration of 50 ppm. Do not exceed this concentration to avoid harming the plant's delicate aquatic environment.

How to Prune Beck's water-marigold?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter

Begin by selecting a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. Examine the plant for any dead or discolored leaves, and start by removing these. Follow by trimming back any overly long stems to maintain neatness and a compact shape. Always cut just above a leaf node to encourage new growth. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Beck's water-marigold plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Select a healthy parent plant to take cuttings or divisions from. Ensure the plant is well-hydrated a few days before propagation to facilitate better recovery and growth.

Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut a stem 4-6 inches long for cuttings, or separate a section of the plant's root ball for division. Be gentle to avoid damaging other parts of the plant.

Dip the cut end of the stem or the separated root section in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. This step is crucial for increasing the success rate of root initiation.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Beck's water-marigold plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Bidens beckii, also known as water marigold, shows signs of needing a new pot when growth slows or roots emerge through drainage holes. The best time to repot is during active growth in spring or early summer, when the plant can quickly establish itself in fresh soil.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one to allow space for growth. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, crucial for aquatic plants like Bidens beckii. A wider pot ensures safe positioning in the water garden or pond.

A rich, loamy aquatic potting mix is ideal. This mix retains enough moisture without becoming soggy, providing nutrients essential for Bidens beckii's growth and supporting robust root development.