SPANISH NEEDLES
Bidens bipinnata
SUNFLOWER FAMILY (Asteraceae)
Identification
- Flowering time - August, September, October
- Uncommon in disturbed sites, mainly uplands at FF
- Fern-like leaves
- Long, barbed needle-like seeds
- Usually in drier places than our other Beggar Ticks
This native annual grows erect and up to 5 feet tall, but usually much shorter. The leaves, up to 5 inches long, are usually twice divided (bipinnate) and resemble fern fronds (D,E). The flower heads, about 1/2 inch long, consist of a bundle of orange disk flowers; they are usually surrounded by a variable number (up to 5) of yellow ray florets (B). The long, narrow seed with barbed bristles at the tip readily sticks to fur and clothing to aid in dispersal. Images (F and G) show the spreading needle-like seeds and the harpoon-like hooks at the tip of the needles.
Prefers areas of disturbance. At Fontenelle Forest most often found in semi-shaded upland sites, but is possible most anywhere. Not seen to date, but likely, at Neale Woods. Found in drier sites than our other species of Bidens (Beggar Ticks). Flowering occurs from August through October.
The elongated seeds with their barbed tips are the origin of its common name, Spanish Needles.
The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.