Spanish needles (Bidens biternata)

Spanish needles

Spanish needles is a flowering herb that typically thrives in sun-drenched meadows and open woodlands. Its distinctive forked growth pattern showcases pairs of opposite leaves, while the branching stems culminate in bright yellow composite flowers. These flowers, often marked with unique blackened centres, give rise to its name and facilitate pollinator attraction. Seasonally, spanish needles demonstrates a resilient nature, adapting well to varied light and soil conditions.

Scientific classification

Species

Spanish needles (Bidens biternata)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

Instantly identify plants with a snap

Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.

Download the App for Free

Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

30 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

Green

Leaf Color

7 mm to 1 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Images of Spanish needles

Distribution of Spanish needles

Distribution Map

Spanish needles is native to various regions across Africa and Asia, flourishing in a range of environments from the African savannahs to the dense forests and grasslands of South and Southeast Asia. Additionally, spanish needles has been introduced to different locales within the Pacific and Europe, where it has adapted to new conditions outside its indigenous ranges.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

Discover plant distribution and habitat

Gain insights into where plants thrive and how they adapt, helping you identify, cultivate, and protect them with essential information on habitats, distribution maps, and climate trends.

Download the App for Free

Habitat

Wasteland, scrub, cultivated land, wet places, roadsides

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Spanish needles

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Spanish needles thrives in moist environments, requiring consistent hydration and moderate drought tolerance. Watering twice a week maintains its health, and rainwater during the growing season enhances its natural growth cycles.

Fertilize: Fertilize spanish needles twice monthly during growing seasons with a balanced fertilizer. Use high nitrogen early on for foliage but limit to promote flowering. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent nutrient burn. Adjust for seasons; ease off in winter. Follow product dosage, and wear gloves during application.

Pruning: Spanish needles is a vigorous herb characterized by needle-like leaves and small yellow flowers. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead or diseased stems, encourage growth, maintain shape, and prevent invasiveness. Regular pruning also controls self-seeding and spreading.

Propagation: Spanish needles propagation involves sowing seeds in well-draining soil with consistent moisture. Seeds should be surface-sown for light exposure. A warm environment enhances germination. Once seedlings develop true leaves, they can be transplanted, ensuring careful handling to avoid root disturbance.

Get tips and tricks for your plants.

Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.

Download the App for Free

Learn More About Spanish needles

Sunlight Requirements

Plant disease auto-diagnose & prevention

AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.

Download the App for Free