Botanical Name: Bidens ferulifolia ‘Blazing Star’

Common Name: Bidens, Beggarticks

Hardiness Zone: Annual in Most Climates; Perennial in Warm Regions (USDA Zones 9–11)

Size: 10–14" Tall × 18–30" Spread

Growth Habit: Spreading, Mounding, Trailing Habit

Sunlight: Thrives in Full Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Adapts to Average Garden Soils

Water Needs: Low to Moderate; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost

Fertilizer: Light, Regular Feeding During Active Growth

Features: Golden Yellow Star-Shaped Blooms, Heavy Flowering, Heat Tolerant, Self-Cleaning, Pollinator Friendly

Uses: Ideal for Containers, Hanging Baskets, Window Boxes, Edging, Groundcover-Style Plantings, and Mass Displays

Patent: ✔ Patented

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

See our complete Bidens Plant Guide for more in depth care details.

More About Bidens ‘Blazing Star’

Bidens ‘Blazing Star’ is a powerhouse annual prized for its nonstop display of bright golden-yellow, star-shaped flowers. The blooms blanket the plant from late spring through frost, creating a bold, cheerful look that holds up exceptionally well through heat, sun, and summer stress.

This variety forms a spreading, slightly trailing habit that works beautifully in containers and landscape beds alike. Unlike some older bidens selections that could become leggy, ‘Blazing Star’ maintains a fuller, more balanced shape while continuing to produce fresh blooms without deadheading.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, ‘Blazing Star’ has been one of the most reliable summer performers for full sun. It establishes quickly, tolerates drought once settled in, and keeps flowering heavily even during prolonged heat.

We especially appreciate its versatility. It works as a spiller in mixed containers, fills space along edges and borders, and can even function as a low, flowering ground cover in sunny locations. Pollinators—especially bees—visit frequently, and the flowers are self-cleaning, keeping the plant looking tidy with minimal effort.

‘Blazing Star’ vs. Other Bidens

Bidens ‘Blazing Star’ is known for its bright, warm golden-orange flowers that bring a vibrant, sunset-toned color to containers, hanging baskets, and garden beds. The blossoms are slightly deeper and more saturated than typical yellow bidens, offering a rich, glowing presence that draws the eye. Compared to Bidens ‘Golden Empire’, which leans more toward a pure golden-yellow, ‘Blazing Star’ carries a hint of orange warmth that feels more autumn-like and dynamic.

Against Bidens ‘Pretty in Pink’ and ‘White Delight™ Improved’, its warm tones create strong contrast, adding energy and brightness to calmer pastel or neutral palettes. ‘Blazing Star’ is ideal when you want a focal color that stands out in mixed combinations, especially in sunny locations where its rich hues can truly shine.