Spanish Needle (Bidens Alba)

A Pollinator Magnet and Resilient Wildflower

Bidens alba, commonly known as Shepherd's Needle, Spanish Needles, Beggarticks, or Butterfly Needles, is a hardy, fast-growing wildflower native to Florida and much of the Americas. Beloved by pollinators, its bright white daisy-like flowers with yellow centers bloom nearly year-round in warm climates, providing nectar for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.

This versatile perennial or self-seeding annual thrives in full sun and a range of soil types, from poor sandy soils to fertile garden beds. It typically grows 1-4 feet tall and spreads quickly, making it ideal for naturalizing, erosion control, or wildflower gardens. The plant is drought-tolerant once established and can be easily propagated from seeds, which cling to clothing and fur for easy dispersal. It also has edible and medicinal uses—its young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, and it has traditional applications in herbal remedies.

Bidens alba is an essential plant for supporting biodiversity while adding charm to your garden or landscape. Let its cheerful blooms and ecological benefits inspire your next gardening project!