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