Dahlia Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' is characterized by its stunning flowers that boast a vibrant blend of colors. The blooms are semi-cactus in form, meaning they have long, pointed petals that curve back towards the stem, giving them a distinct spiky appearance. The petals are typically arranged in a layered, somewhat disordered fashion, which adds to the visual interest of each flower. The color palette of 'Alva's Doris' is quite striking, with shades ranging from deep pink to softer tones at the petal tips, often blending with yellows and oranges toward the center of the bloom. This creates an enchanting, warm gradient that seems to glow in full sunlight. The flowers are large and conspicuous, making them the standout feature of the plant. The foliage is a lush green, forming a bushy backdrop that serves to highlight the vivid colors of the flowers. The leaves are typically oblong with pointed tips and a slightly serrated edge, contributing to the plant's overall lush appearance. The stems are strong and sturdy, designed to support the weight of the heavy blooms, which appear profusely when the plant is well cared for. Overall, Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' is an eye-catching plant that is prized for its decorative blooms that add a spectacular splash of color to any garden space.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' (S-c).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Alva's Doris', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the plant typically does not cause serious harm. However, if large amounts are consumed, it may result in mild gastrointestinal discomfort. It is always recommended to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential pesticide use and the presence of natural irritants that can cause a reaction in susceptible individuals.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Alva's Doris', are typically considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingestion of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, including symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, but it is not expected to cause serious or life-threatening illness. Nevertheless, it is still advisable to prevent pets from eating ornamental plants due to possible pesticide exposure and the potential for individual sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlias are known for their vibrant colors and intricate petal arrangements, adding beauty to any garden.
- Variety: With a multitude of forms and colors available, Dahlias like 'Alva's Doris' offer gardeners a wide range of options for landscape design.
- Pollinator Attraction: Dahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are essential for the pollination of plants and a healthy ecosystem.
- Cut Flowers: 'Alva's Doris' produces blooms that are excellent for cut flower arrangements, providing long-lasting color indoors.
- Continuous Blooms: Dahlias can bloom for extended periods from midsummer to autumn, providing continuous color in the garden.
- Garden Focal Point: The striking appearance of Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' can serve as a centerpiece in garden design, drawing attention and interest.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated by dividing tubers, allowing gardeners to multiply their plants and share with others.
- Container Gardening: They are suitable for container gardening, making them versatile for those with limited space.
- Garden Competitions: Dahlia enthusiasts often grow these flowers for exhibiting in garden competitions, where their size and form are appreciated.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: Petals of the dahlia can be used to produce natural dyes for textiles, offering hues that range depending on the color of the blooms.
- Photography Prop: Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' is an attractive subject for photographers, whether for amateur macro photography or professional floral shoots.
- Teaching Tool: Horticulture educators can use the dahlia to illustrate principles of plant care, hybridization, and the complexity of flower forms.
- Artistic Inspiration: The striking appearance of Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' serves as a muse for artists and can be found represented in paintings, drawings, and sculptures.
- Culinary Decoration: The vibrant, edible petals can be used to garnish dishes and desserts, adding a splash of color to culinary presentations.
- Companion Planting: Dahlias can be planted alongside vegetables to attract pollinators and potentially improve the yield of the vegetable garden.
- Mental Health Therapy: Engaging with flowering plants such as dahlias in horticultural therapy sessions can aid in improving mental health and reducing stress.
- Fashion Accessories: Petals or whole flowers of the dahlia can be incorporated into fashion accessories, such as hairpieces or brooches for occasions like weddings.
- Floral Arrangement Classes: Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' can be used in educational workshops focused on teaching floral arrangement and bouquet design.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Dried petals of the dahlia can be used as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper or plastic confetti for celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Change and Transition: Dahlias symbolize the journey towards personal growth and the changes along the way because they bloom in a variety of colors and forms, representing diversity and evolution.
- Dignity and Elegance: The Dahlia 'Alva's Doris' holds a poised and graceful appearance, embodying sophistication and a dignified beauty that is celebrated in different cultures.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as gifts, dahlias signify a lasting bond and commitment between two people, often associated with marriage and long-term relationships.
- Strength in Adversity: Dahlias can bloom and thrive in challenging conditions, which is why they are often seen as symbols of inner strength and the ability to withstand tough situations.
- Creative Expression: The diverse forms and vibrant colors of the Dahlia express creativity and inspiration, making them a muse for artists and creative minds.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture to thrive, but it is crucial to avoid overwatering. Water the 'Alva's Doris' dahlias deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant, depending on weather conditions. The top inch of soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. In hotter, drier periods, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the soil moisture level first. It's best to water the plants early in the morning to reduce evaporation and help prevent foliar diseases that can result from standing water on the leaves.
LightDahlias, including the 'Alva's Doris' variety, perform best under full sun conditions. They require at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. The best spot for these plants is one where they are exposed to the morning sun with some protection during the hottest part of the afternoon if temperatures are high. Partial shade is acceptable as long as the light is bright, but too much shade can impede flower production.
TemperatureDahlias like 'Alva's Doris' thrive in moderate temperatures and are sensitive to extreme cold and heat. They can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F but should not be exposed to frost, which can damage or kill the plants. The ideal growing temperature for dahlias ranges from 60°F to 75°F during the day. Ensure that the nighttime temperature doesn't fall below 60°F for optimal growth and blooming.
PruningPruning dahlias, including 'Alva's Doris', is essential for maintaining plant health and promoting vigorous growth. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Additionally, cutting back the stems in early summer by about a third can result in bushier plants with more flowers. The best time for pruning is when the plants are actively growing and not during periods of dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Dahlias, like 'Alva's Doris', is two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand to facilitate drainage and aeration.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Alva's Doris', generally don't need to be repotted often as they are typically grown as annuals. However, they should be lifted and divided every few years to prevent overcrowding.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Alva's Doris' do well in moderate humidity levels. They are not particularly humidity-dependent, so average room humidity is typically sufficient for healthy growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and space for Dahlia growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, and provide ample space and support.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Alva's Doris', commonly known as Dahlia, begins its cycle when a tuber is planted in the ground after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. The tuber sprouts and forms a stem, leaves, and a root system, developing into a mature plant that stands upright with strong foliage. As the plant grows, flower buds appear and eventually bloom into vibrant, large flowers typical of semi-cactus dahlias like 'Alva's Doris' during late summer and continue until the first frost. After flowering, the plant's aerial parts begin to yellow and die back as it enters dormancy, where the tubers store energy for the next growing season. Before winter, the tubers are typically dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dark place to prevent freezing. The cycle restarts when these stored tubers are replanted in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter to Early Spring
Propogation: Dahlia 'Alva's Doris', commonly referred to simply as Dahlia, is typically propagated from cuttings or by dividing tubers; however, the most popular method is by dividing its tubers. This is done in spring just before the new growth begins. Gardeners will dig up the clumps of tubers carefully to avoid as much damage as possible and then, using a sharp knife, slice the tuber clump so that each division has at least one eye, which is a point from where the new plant will grow. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and callus over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, the divided tubers are planted in well-draining soil about 6-8 inches (15-20 centimeters) deep, ensuring the eyes are facing upwards. This method is favored as it maintains the true characteristics of the parent plant and also rejuvenates older, less vigorous clumps, encouraging more robust and plentiful blooms in the upcoming season.
