Nodding Bur-marigold (Bidens cernua) is a distinctive and vibrant flowering plant native to wetland habitats. Also known as Nodding Burweed or Nodding-Bur Marigold, it belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is characterised by its bright yellow flowers and nodding habit, with the flower heads hanging downwards on slender stems.

Nodding Bur-Marigold thrives in damp to wet soils and is commonly found in marshes, ditches, pond margins, and other wetland areas across the UK. It prefers full sun to partial shade, and its presence is often indicative of nutrient-rich, moist habitats.

As a flowering plant, Nodding Bur-Marigold serves as an essential food source for various pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hoverflies. Its nectar-rich flowers attract these pollinators, contributing to the overall biodiversity of wetland ecosystems.

Behaviourally, Nodding Bur-Marigold typically grows as an annual or short-lived perennial. It reproduces primarily through seed dispersal, and its bur-like seeds are equipped with small hooks that attach to passing animals or are carried by water, aiding in its dispersal and colonisation of new wetland areas.

Culturally, Nodding Bur-Marigold may not have significant cultural references in the UK, but it is valued for its contribution to wetland biodiversity and its striking appearance in natural landscapes.

An interesting fact about Nodding Bur-Marigold is its ability to thrive in areas with fluctuating water levels, making it well-suited to the dynamic conditions of wetland habitats. Additionally, its seeds are an important food source for waterfowl and other wetland birds.