Nodding Beggar-ticks
Bidens cernua
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Nodding Beggar-ticks as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–40" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 40 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nodding beggar-ticks is a native annual wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers from mid-summer through fall. This moisture-loving plant thrives in wet soils and can spread moderately in favorable conditions. The seeds have barbed appendages that stick to clothing and fur, which aids in natural dispersal.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nodding Beggar-ticks takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Seeds stick to clothing and pets
- Can spread aggressively in moist areas
- May be perceived as a weed by neighbors
Wildlife value
This plant is valuable for late-season pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles when other flowers are scarce. The seeds also provide food for birds, particularly finches and sparrows.
Common questions
- How much sun does Nodding Beggar-ticks need?
- Nodding Beggar-ticks grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Nodding Beggar-ticks bloom?
- Nodding Beggar-ticks blooms in July, August, September, and October.
- Where is Nodding Beggar-ticks native?
- Nodding Beggar-ticks (Bidens cernua) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 40 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Nodding Beggar-ticks toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Nodding Beggar-ticks as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Nodding Beggar-ticks attract?
- Nodding Beggar-ticks draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Nodding Beggar-ticks HOA-friendly?
- Nodding Beggar-ticks takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Nodding Beggar-ticks? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.