Bidens connata, commonly known as Purplestem Beggarticks or Swamp Beggarticks, is an annual herb native to wetland areas such as marshes, swamps, and the edges of ponds and streams across North America. It is also found in similar wetland habitats in Eurasia and North Africa and has been naturalized in Australia and the Pacific Islands. This plant typically grows up to 79 inches (200 cm) tall and features striking yellow flower heads that bloom from late summer to fall. The flowers consist of both disc and ray florets, with the ray florets often being quite showy. The stems are often purple-tinged, which is the origin of the common name ’Purplestem’.

Purplestem Beggarticks is valued for its ability to thrive in wet, marshy conditions, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, wetland restoration projects, and naturalized areas. It is also used in ornamental water gardens for its attractive flowers and ability to provide habitat for wetland wildlife. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions. While it is not particularly prone to diseases, it can become aggressive in some settings due to its prolific seed production and may require management to prevent unwanted spread.CC BY-SA 4.0