Bidgee Widgee Acaena saccaticupula
ABOUT
The plant known as Bidgee-widgee is a visually interesting species with a distinctive appearance. It features a mat of fine, feathery foliage that often presents itself in lush green color. This foliage creates a dense and textured carpet that is both soft to the touch and appealing to the eye. The leaves are small, pinnate, and typically have a slightly serrated edge, contributing to the delicate and intricate look of the plant. A standout feature of Bidgee-widgee is its unique seed heads or burrs that appear after the flowering season. These seed heads are typically rounded with spines or hooks, which can easily latch onto passing animals or clothing, allowing the plant to disperse its seeds over a larger area. The flowers of the Bidgee-widgee are generally inconspicuous and do not contribute significantly to its ornamental value. However, these flowers precede the burrs and are integral to the plant's reproductive cycle. The overall aesthetic of the Bidgee-widgee is one that may be suited for rock gardens or as a low ground cover due to its mat-forming habit. This plant can provide an interesting texture and foliage contrast when paired with other garden plants. Its prostrate nature and tendency to spread can create a cohesive look in landscape designs, making it a fascinating and practical choice for gardeners looking for low-growing vegetation.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Rosaceae
Synonyms
Blue Haze, Purple Goose Leaf
Common names
Acaena saccaticupula.
ToxicityTo humans
Biddy-biddy (Acaena saccaticupula), does not have a well-documented profile of toxicity to humans. As with any plant, sensitive individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation upon handling it. If ingested, it could potentially cause gastrointestinal discomfort, but there are no well-known toxic effects that would lead to severe poisoning. However, it is generally advisable to avoid eating unknown plants due to potential risks.
To pets
Biddy-biddy (Acaena saccaticupula) is not commonly listed as a toxic plant to pets. However, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in animals, such as vomiting or diarrhea, particularly if consumed in large quantities. Any plant can potentially cause a reaction depending on an individual pet's sensitivity. It is wise to prevent pets from ingesting this or any unknown plants to avoid the possibility of adverse reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Height
0.1 feet (0.03 meters)
Spread
0.5 feet (0.15 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
6
Native area
South America
Benefits
General Benefits- Ground Cover: Acaena saccaticupula, commonly known as "biddy-biddy," effectively covers bare spots in gardens, providing a dense mat that suppresses weeds.
- Erosion Control: Its dense growth habit helps stabilize soil in sloped areas, reducing erosion caused by wind and water runoff.
- Wildlife Habitat: Biddy-biddy provides shelter for small ground-dwelling creatures and beneficial insects in the garden ecosystem.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its unique burr-like seed pods and attractive foliage, it adds visual interest and texture to garden landscapes.
- Drought Tolerance: Biddy-biddy is drought-resistant once established, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and low-water-use gardens.
- Soil Improvement: As it grows, it can help improve soil structure and health with its root system.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established, making it a practical choice for gardeners seeking low-maintenance plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Acaena saccaticupula, commonly known as "burrs", can be used in landscape gardening for its low-growing habit and interesting texture, providing ground cover that deters weeds.
- This plant's persistent burrs can be utilized in crafting activities, where they are incorporated into natural decorations or used to add texture to wreaths and other floral arrangements.
- Due to their barbed seeds that stick to clothing and animal fur, burrs can be used for educational purposes, teaching about seed dispersal methods throughout the plant kingdom.
- The distinct appearance of the plant is appreciated in photography, often featured to add complexity and an element of wilderness in garden photography.
- Its durability under foot traffic allows Acaena saccaticupula to be planted in between stepping stones or pavers for a green paving solution.
- In areas where soil erosion is a problem, the burrs' mat-forming characteristic can help stabilize the soil.
- Because of its unique and attractive foliage, the plant is used in themed gardens such as fairy or miniature gardens for aesthetic purposes.
- Artists and designers may use the dried burrs as natural inspiration for textures and patterns in their works.
- In eco-friendly clothing, the burrs can sometimes be a natural alternative to Velcro, though their use is more whimsical than practical.
- For those practicing dyeing, the plant might offer natural dye properties that can be explored for textile coloring, albeit not a common use.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Acaena saccaticupula, commonly known as Biddy-biddy, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Biddy-biddy is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Resilience: Acaena saccaticupula, commonly known as "bidgee-widgee," is a low-growing plant that can thrive in challenging environments, symbolizing the ability to endure and persist through difficulties.
- Protection: With its spiky burrs, bidgee-widgee can latch onto animals and people, symbolizing a natural protective mechanism and the concept of guarding oneself or others.
- Adaptability: Bidgee-widgee's successful growth in diverse ecosystems reflects the trait of adaptability, representing the capacity to adjust to various circumstances.
- Tenacity: The way its burrs cling to passersby exemplifies tenacity, associating the plant with determination and a strong hold on one’s beliefs or goals.
WaterFor the "Blue Haze" Pirri-pirri bur, it's important to provide consistent moisture without over-saturating the soil. Water the plant thoroughly, allowing water to soak in rather than run off. Aim to water every week, supplying about 1 to 2 gallons per square foot of soil, depending on the climate and weather conditions. During periods of extreme heat or dryness, watering frequency may need to increase to maintain soil moisture. However, ensure that the plant isn't left standing in water as this could lead to root rot.
LightBlue Haze Pirri-pirri bur thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. The best spot is one where the plant can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. When placing the plant indoors, a south-facing or west-facing window would be ideal to provide the necessary light, but avoid intense, direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureThe Blue Haze Pirri-pirri bur performs best in temperate climates with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 75°F. It can withstand short periods of temperature drops to 20°F and highs up to 90°F. However, for optimal growth, aim to maintain a comfortable temperature close to the 70°F mark. The plant may need protection if temperatures are expected to remain below the minimum threshold for extended periods.
PruningPruning Blue Haze Pirri-pirri bur is mainly for aesthetic purposes and to control its spread, as it can be quite vigorous. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged foliage and to shape the plant. Cutting back the plant every year or as needed can encourage more compact, dense growth. The best time to prune is just before new growth starts in spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe common name for Acaena saccaticupula is Buzzy Blue. The best soil mix for Buzzy Blue is well-draining with a combination of loam, peat, and coarse sand or perlite. The soil should have a pH around 6.0 to 7.0, slightly acidic to neutral. Additionally, incorporating organic matter can help with nutrient retention and soil structure.
RepottingBuzzy Blue, commonly known as Acaena saccaticupula, should be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and allow for continued growth. Repot in spring or early summer before new growth begins, using a slightly larger pot to accommodate the plant's spreading habit.
Humidity & MistingBuzzy Blue, also known as Acaena saccaticupula, thrives best in moderate to high humidity conditions. However, it is quite adaptable and can tolerate lower humidity levels. Aim for a humidity level of 40-50% for optimal plant health and to ensure the foliage remains vibrant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Buzzy Blue in bright, indirect light and water moderately.
Outdoor
Plant Buzzy Blue in partial shade and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleAcaena saccaticupula, commonly known as Blue Haze, begins its life cycle as a seed which germinates in late winter to early spring, given adequate moisture and light conditions. Upon germination, the seedling develops a root system and a rosette of leaves close to the ground, characteristic of this low-growing perennial. As the plant matures, it produces more leaves and stems, spreading outwards to form a mat-like ground cover. By late spring to early summer, Blue Haze produces small, inconspicuous flowers that, if pollinated, develop into burr-like seed heads that give the plant its distinct appearance. These seed heads can attach to animals or be dispersed by wind, aiding in the spread of the seeds to initiate new growth elsewhere. Throughout the year, but especially in autumn, older parts of the plant may die back, while new growth continues from the center of the rosette or from stolons extending from the main plant.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to summer
The most popular method for propagating Acaena saccaticupula, commonly known as Blue Haze, is by division. This is typically done in the spring or fall when the plant's growth is most active. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the plant and gently separate the root ball into smaller sections, ensuring that each new section has a good root system and several shoots. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about 6 to 12 inches (approximately 15 to 30 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the new plantings thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots. Division is a straightforward and effective way to create new Blue Haze plants and to maintain the health and vigor of the original plant by reducing overcrowding.
