Bidens alba is in the Aster family and is quite closely related to the genus Coreopsis. It has a very strong taproot, and it is almost impossible to pull up the whole root. However, in my own experience, first year plants are quite easy to pull up. As the growing seasons goes on & the plants attain height, the weight of the flowers & seedheads tend to weigh down the tips such that the stem will touch the ground, and when that happens they often root along the nodes of those stems. Bidens alba will grow almost anywhere under any conditions, wet or dry, and in any soil. The seeds have 2 little wiry filaments on the tips, which catch on animal fur, birds, and human hair or clothing. All of this adds to the profusion of these plants.
The blooms are a favorite of many different butterflies, some of which are the grey hairstreak, great purple hairstreak, red banded hairstreak, and dogface. Monarchs depend on Bidens for a nectar source during their migration. A vast number of pollinators can be found visiting Bidens at any time.
Despite the fact that most gardeners would consider this plant a pest of the worst kind, it is an important factor in honey production. Bidens alba is the third most common reliable source of nectar for honey bees.
The flowers and young leaves are edible in salads.

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