Dahlia 'Amy Cave' (Ba)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Amy Cave' is a captivating flowering plant known for its distinctive blooms. The flowers of this Dahlia variety are characterized by their striking color and form. The petals display a gradient of hues, often showcasing a warm blend of colors that can range from deep reds at the base, progressing to softer oranges and yellows towards the tips. The blooms are full and dense, with numerous layered petals that create a lush, intricate appearance. The petals themselves are typically long and slightly curved, contributing to the flower's overall voluminous look. Each individual petal has a slightly ruffled edge, which adds a touch of elegance and texture to the bloom. The flowers are composed in a circular fashion, emanating out from the central disc in a symmetrical pattern which is a hallmark of the Dahlia family. The foliage of 'Amy Cave' Dahlias is equally impressive, with rich green leaves that provide a striking contrast to the fiery tones of the flowers. The leaves are typically broad and have a slightly serrated edge, bringing an additional element of texture to the visual presentation of the plant. The combination of the spectacular blooms and lush foliage makes Dahlia 'Amy Cave' a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements alike, where it brings a burst of color and a sophisticated aesthetic. The presence of these Dahlias often denotes a well-cared-for space that enjoys the vibrancy and beauty of these eye-catching flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Amy Cave' (Ba).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlia 'Amy Cave' is a variety of dahlia plants. Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Therefore, accidental ingestion of dahlia plants typically does not lead to poisoning or serious health issues. However, as with any non-food plant, individual sensitivities or allergic reactions could occur, leading to mild gastrointestinal discomfort or dermatological reactions in some cases. It’s always good practice to avoid eating ornamental plants due to possible pesticide application or the presence of other potentially irritating compounds.
To pets
Dahlia 'Amy Cave' refers to a cultivar of dahlia, which is known to be relatively safe for pets. Dahlias are not included on the toxic plant lists for cats and dogs provided by organizations such as the ASPCA. Though non-toxic, ingesting dahlias might still cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the ingestion of non-food items rather than the toxicity of the plant itself. If a pet consumes a large amount of the plant or shows signs of distress, it is always prudent to consult with a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Blooms: Dahlia 'Amy Cave' produces beautiful, large flowers which add a splash of color to any garden or floral arrangement.
- Attracts Pollinators: The vivid flowers of the dahlia attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects essential for pollination in your garden.
- Long Blooming Period: Dahlias generally bloom for an extended period from midsummer until the first frosts, ensuring long-lasting beauty in the landscape.
- Great for Cut Flowers: Dahlia flowers have sturdy stems and a long vase life, making them an excellent choice for cut floral arrangements.
- Versatile Planting: Dahlias can be planted in borders, flower beds, or containers, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Easy to Grow: With the right conditions, dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate, requiring only well-drained soil, regular watering, and full sun exposure.
- Wide Variety of Colors and Forms: Dahlias, including 'Amy Cave', come in a range of colors and flower shapes, allowing for diverse and personalized garden themes.
- Increase in Value: Tubers of dahlias multiply each season, providing an opportunity to divide and expand your collection or share with other gardeners.
- Seasonal Transformation: The vibrant display of dahlia flowers can effectively transform the appearance of a garden each season, creating dynamic visual interest.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- The tubers of Dahlia 'Amy Cave' can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, offering a spectrum of colors from yellows to oranges, depending upon the mordant used.
- In some cultures, Dahlia tubers are considered a food source, akin to a root vegetable, and can be eaten after proper preparation to remove any bitterness.
- Dahlia petals can be used to add color and a mild spicy flavor to salads and desserts, being entirely edible.
- These plants can serve as a learning tool in botanical education, teaching students about plant hybridization and genetic diversity.
- Dahlia flowers are sometimes used in art and photography due to their vibrant colors and intricate petal patterns.
- Florists may use Dahlias in dried flower arrangements, as they retain their shape and color well when air-dried.
- In craft activities, Dahlia flowers and petals can be pressed and used for making bookmarks, greeting cards, or other paper-based artwork.
- The sturdy stems of Dahlias can be used in light garden construction, such as creating natural and biodegradable plant supports for other plants.
- Dahlia blooms can be used in potpourri mixtures, contributing to both visual appeal and fragrance.
- For special events or holidays, Dahlias can be floated in large shallow bowls or fountains as part of table centerpieces or decorations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlias embody elegance and dignity with their stately and structured blooms, symbolizing the grace one carries in life's complexities.
- Change and Variety: Considering the dahlia's vast array of colors and forms, it can represent diversity, change, and variety in life.
- Commitment and Bond: Due to the dahlia's intricate layers and enduring bloom period, it may symbolize a lasting commitment or a strong, everlasting bond.
- Warning or Caution: Historically, dahlias were used to convey a cautionary message, reminding us to stay dignified in challenging situations.
- Personal Achievement: The dahlia, with its standout presence, is often associated with personal achievement, reflecting the reward and recognition of accomplishments.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Amy Cave' variety, prefer consistent moisture and should be watered two to three times a week, depending on the weather conditions. During the active growing season, you may need to water them more frequently, especially if the weather is hot and dry. Dahlias generally need about an inch of water per week, so adjust your watering to meet this requirement. The best way to water these plants is to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Check the soil before watering; it should be moist but not waterlogged. If using a watering can or hose, you might use approximately 0.5 gallons per plant each time you water, ensuring that the soil is thoroughly soaked.
LightDahlias, like 'Amy Cave', thrive in full sun conditions, which means they should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal location for this plant is in an area where it has clear access to the sun's rays throughout the day, without any shade blocking its light source. Avoid placing them in areas with too much shade, as this can hinder their blooming and overall growth.
TemperatureDahlias, such as 'Amy Cave', prefer a temperature range between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. These plants can survive in temperatures as low as the high 30s, but frost can be detrimental to their health. During hot summer days, temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the plants, so providing some afternoon shade or mulch to keep the roots cooler can be beneficial.
PruningDahlias such as 'Amy Cave' require pruning to promote healthy growth and bountiful blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage further blooming throughout the season. After the first set of leaves, pinch out the main growing tip to promote bushiness and more blooms. Pruning is ideal after the plants have reached a height of about 16 inches. The best time for major pruning is when the plants have been hit by the first frost in fall, which signals that it's time to cut back the stems and overwinter the tubers.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Amy Cave' thrives in a well-draining soil mix with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. A good mixture is two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide essential nutrients for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, such as Dahlia 'Amy Cave', generally do not need to be repotted frequently. They should be lifted and divided every 2 to 3 years in the fall, after flowering has ceased and the foliage has died back, to maintain vigor and flower quality.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like Dahlia 'Amy Cave' prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable to various conditions. Aim for a humidity level between 40% and 60%, ensuring good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases common in high humidity environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, cool temps, and consistent moisture.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun after frost, keep soil moist and well-drained.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Amy Cave' generally starts when a gardener plants a tuber in well-drained soil after the last frost of spring. The tuber then develops roots and a stem, eventually producing leaves as it enters the vegetative growth stage. Following the vegetative stage, the plant advances into the flowering stage, typically in midsummer, where it displays its vibrant blooms attracting pollinators. After pollination, it may set seed, but many dahlias are typically grown from tubers rather than seeds. As temperatures drop in autumn, the Dahlia 'Amy Cave' enters the senescence phase; the aerial parts die back with the first frost, and the plant goes dormant for the winter, relying on its underground tuber to survive. In spring, the cycle recommences, with the tuber sending up new shoots to start the growth cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Dahlia 'Amy Cave' is through division, which is typically done in the spring after the last frost when the new shoots have emerged and are a few inches tall. This involves carefully splitting the tuberous roots of the dahlia using a sharp, sterilized knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can emerge. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and heal for a day or two to prevent rot. After that, the divisions can be planted directly into the garden or pots, placing them at a depth where the top of the tuber is about 2 inches (5 centimeters) below the soil surface and spaced about 18 inches (45 centimeters) apart to give each plant room to grow. Adequate watering and protection from direct sunlight for a few days will help the new plants establish.
