Bidens heterophylla Hannays Lemon Drop

Bidens heterophylla 'Hannay's Lemon Drop' is a perennial that forms a dense bush of impressive size (150cm (59in)). It is covered with multiple small flowers from July to October for the greatest pleasure of the eyes. The colours of their petals are lively and attract the eye and the light: lemon yellow, bordered with white. Not demanding, you will not need to watch over it, it manages on its own.

Its cousin, Bidens ferulifolia, is well known for taking centre stage as an annual in our summer compositions. Like it,  Bidens heterophylla 'Hannay's Lemon Drop' has ramified, upright and running stems (preferably in sandy soil) that start from its base and rise in all directions. Its dark green foliage is highly dissected, fine and subtle. This Bidens therefore constitutes an appreciable base for slightly taller neighbours and occupies a generous volume. Its stems are covered with small flowers (3 to 4cm (1 to 2in)), composed of five lemon yellow ligulate petals on two-thirds and white at the ends. The centre is also yellow with small ochre touches.

Its Mexican origin suggests a frost resistance that is not so important. Our climates will suit it as long as it is given a warm position, without exposing it to drought. It will be preferable to protect it in winter if the frost is intense (beyond - 15°C (59°F)). Its withered stems will already provide some protection if you leave them in place.

The habit of Bidens heterophylla 'Hannay's Lemon Drop' is quite rare in the range of summer plants. Therefore, it should not be missed. In the middle of a bed, it structures the space and adds volume between Dahlias and Gladioli. In the background, it constitutes a dense and colourful backdrop at the same time. If you are looking to achieve a significant effect without too much effort, adopt it! You can group them in entire beds to form large clouds of colourful butterflies.