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Smooth Beggarticks

Bidens laevis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Bidens laevis (Smooth Beggarticks) is a native wetland wildflower that blooms yellow flowers from June through November across most US states. This moisture-loving plant attracts butterflies, bees, and other nectar-seeking insects.

Smooth Beggarticks (Bidens laevis)
Photo: (c) Michael D Fox, algunos derechos reservados (CC BY), subido por Michael D Fox

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Smooth Beggarticks as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

high

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CA and 28 more states

Pollinators

butterflies, bees, nectar insects

Smooth Beggarticks is a native annual wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from summer through late fall. This wetland plant thrives in consistently moist conditions and can spread to form colonies in favorable sites.

Growing Smooth Beggarticks

Grow Smooth Beggarticks in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Smooth Beggarticks is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.

  • Requires seasonal replanting
  • May have messy dieback

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects from June through November. Seeds also provide food for birds and waterfowl.

Common questions

When does Bidens laevis bloom?
Smooth Beggarticks blooms from June through November, providing a long season of yellow flowers that attract pollinators.
What pollinators visit Bidens laevis?
This native wildflower attracts butterflies, bees, and various nectar-feeding insects throughout its extended blooming period.
Where is Smooth Beggarticks native?
Bidens laevis is native to wetland areas across most of the United States, from coast to coast including the Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, and parts of the West.
What growing conditions does Bidens laevis prefer?
Smooth Beggarticks thrives in full sun locations with consistently high moisture or wet soil conditions, making it ideal for pond edges and wetland gardens.
Is Smooth Beggarticks toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Smooth Beggarticks as toxic to livestock.
Is Smooth Beggarticks HOA-friendly?
Smooth Beggarticks is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

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 Smooth Beggarticks? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.