Tickseed Sunflower (Bidens aristosa): Late-Summer Gold for Meadows

Bidens aristosa is a fast-growing annual native to Midwestern wet meadows, reaching 4–5 feet tall. In late summer, it smothers its fine foliage with hundreds of 2-inch golden daisies featuring buttery tips and dark, fringed centers. Butterflies love the nectar-rich blooms.

Important Caution

This plant self-sows generously and is listed as invasive in Kentucky. Use with caution and deadhead to prevent unwanted spread. It prefers full sun and medium to wet moisture, making it suitable for rain gardens or moist meadow plantings.

Growing and Problems

Sow seeds in spring. Potential issues include mottle virus, Cercospora leaf spot, white smut, downy mildew, powdery mildew, rust, leaf miners, and aphids. Its aggressive growth habit means it can overwhelm less vigorous neighbors.

Best Uses

Ideal for naturalizing in meadow gardens, wildflower plantings, or large-scale borders where its self-seeding is an asset. The long bloom season (summer through fall) provides extended color and pollinator support.

Quick Reference

• Height: 3–6 feet
• Spread: 1–3 feet
• Light: Full sun
• Moisture: Medium to wet
• Flowers: Golden yellow, late summer to fall
• Special: Native, attracts butterflies, self-seeds aggressively
• Caution: Invasive in some areas