Bur Marigold
Bidens laevis
Care
full sun
moderate
Adaptable, tolerant of sand, loam and clay.
0–8ft tall
Jun-Nov
Friendly
Riparian corridors and wetland margins throughout California, below 3000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant bur marigold in full sun in spring or early summer. This adaptable plant tolerates sand, loam, and clay soils, so you don't need to amend much - just make sure your soil drains reasonably well. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart since they can reach 2-3 feet tall and get bushy. Direct sowing seeds requires no special treatment; just scatter them where you want them to grow.
After Planting
Water moderately during the first growing season to help establish the plant; weekly watering should be sufficient through the summer months. Once established, bur marigold is fairly drought-tolerant and can handle drier periods. The main mistake is overwatering, which can lead to root issues in clay soils - let the soil dry out between waterings. You'll get blooms from June through November, and the plant will self-seed readily if you allow spent flowers to mature, so deadhead if you want to prevent that.
Wildlife Supported
Birds
seed consumption during migration and overwintering in California wetlands
Insects
nectar source for multiple broods throughout growing season
foliage feeding insect; natural population control check
larval host plant; polyphagous pest species
larval host plant for multiple broods during warm season