Xian-feng-cao / Blackjack Seeds (Bidens pilosa)

• Family: Aster (Asteraceae)
• Hardiness: Annual, requiring 100 days to complete fruition
• Common Names: Xian-feng-cao, Blackjack, Cobbler’s Pegs, Hairy Beggarsticks, Sticky Beaks, Farmer’s Friend
• Scientific Name: Bidens pilosa
• Origin: Native to South America; naturalized worldwide in warmer regions
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing annual weed, self-fertile
• Flower Description: Rayless yellow disc flowers
• Plant Height: Up to 5 feet
• Bloom Time: Summer to early fall
• Foliage: Green, highly photosensitive (contact may cause skin reactions)
• Edibility: Used as a potherb, especially in African cuisine
• Medicinal Uses:
  • Roots, leaves, and seeds used traditionally for:
    • Stomach issues
    • Antidysenteric
    • Antimalarial
    • Pain relief (anodyne)
    • Antimicrobial
    • Lyme disease treatment
    • Hepatoprotective and hypotensive effects
    • Veterinary use for animal colic
• Growing Instructions:
  • Soil Requirements: Prefers disturbed soil, similar to conditions for Mustard or Kale
  • Light Requirements: Full sun
  • Watering Preferences: Average
  • Sowing Instructions:
    • Sow seeds in standard potting soil or directly in the garden
    • Barely cover with soil, tamp, and keep evenly moist and warm until germination
    • Germination is rapid
  • Plant Spacing: Space plants 2 to 3 feet apart
• Special Considerations:
  • Photosensitivity Warning: Contact with fresh plant can cause photosensitivity; wash with soap and water after handling
• Traditional Medicine: Widely used in herbal medicine for humans and veterinary purposes