Dahlia Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' exhibits a striking and vibrant appearance, being a standout in the garden with its distinct floral characteristics. The plant boasts showy blooms comprised of layers of petals that radiate outwards from the center in an orderly fashion, which is indicative of the formal decorative dahlia type. The petals are typically of a rich hue, often showcasing vibrant colors or a gradient of tones that captivate the eye. These blooms are known to be relatively large and bold, making a strong visual impact. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' is equally attractive, with lush green leaves that provide a lush background for the bright flowers. The overall shape of the plant is bushy and full, with stems that support the weight of the large blooms well. This plant is a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts for its ability to bring life and color to a garden space, and it also makes for excellent cut flowers due to the longevity of the blooms and their aesthetic appeal. The Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' flowers from early summer until the first frost, offering a long season of enjoyment.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' (S-c).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Andrew Magson', are not known to be toxic to humans. Ingesting them should not cause poisoning or toxic symptoms.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. If a pet ingests part of a Dahlia 'Andrew Magson', it is not expected to experience poisoning or serious health issues due to toxicity. However, ingestion of any non-food plant can potentially cause mild stomach upset in some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' features vibrant blooms that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator-Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects which are vital for pollination and a healthy ecosystem.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, beds, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
- Cut Flowers: Blooms make excellent cut flowers for bouquets and floral arrangements with a long vase life.
- Garden Performance: Known for its robustness and reliability, providing a long flowering season from midsummer to frost.
- Emotional Wellbeing: The beauty of its blooms can provide a therapeutic effect and contribute to emotional wellbeing and stress reduction.
- Cultural Significance: Dahlias are culturally important as they are used in festivals and events, symbolizing diverse meanings such as creativity and elegance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural fabric dye - The petals of dahlias can be used to produce a range of vibrant colors for dyeing fabrics.
- Photography subject - Dahlias, due to their intricate beauty, are often used as subjects in macro photography and floral photography.
- Garden design - Because of their unique shape and color, dahlia flowers can be used to create patterns and designs in garden landscapes.
- Educational tool - Dahlia plants can be used to teach botany and horticulture, demonstrating plant growth, blooming cycles, and hybridization.
- Edible garnishes - Though not commonly known, the petals of dahlias are edible and can be used to garnish desserts and salads for a touch of color.
- Art inspiration - Dahlia flowers often inspire artists and can be found depicted in paintings, sculptures, and other artworks.
- Cultural symbols - In some cultures, dahlias are used in celebrations and festivals to symbolize dignity and elegance.
- Motif in design - The shape and form of dahlia flowers are used as motifs in textiles, wallpapers, and interior design elements.
- Color palettes - The wide range of dahlia colors can serve as inspiration for designers and artists to create color palettes for various applications.
- Event decor - With their striking appearance, dahlias can be used in event decorations, from weddings to corporate functions, enhancing the ambiance with their blooms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Change and Transformation: Dahlias, in general, symbolize change and transformation due to their diverse and colorful blooms, representing personal growth and change.
- Dignity and Elegance: The Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' (S-c) exhibits a stunning and gracious form, embodying qualities of dignity and elegance.
- Commitment and Bond: With its robust structure and vibrant colors, dahlias are often associated with a lasting bond and a lifelong commitment between two people.
- Inner Strength: The flower's ability to grow and flourish in a variety of conditions reflects inner strength and the ability to persist through challenges.
- Creative Spirit: The intricate petals and vivid colors of the Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' (S-c) evoke a sense of creativity and inspiration.
- Embrace of Uniqueness: Each dahlia variety, including 'Andrew Magson' (S-c), is unique, symbolizing the importance of embracing our individuality.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture, especially during the growth period. Water dahlias deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to two inches of water each time. During hotter, dry spells, you may need to increase watering frequency. Ensure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging. Over the growing season, a dahlia may require up to a gallon of water per week, depending on weather conditions and soil type.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight, needing at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for a Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' is in a location where it can receive ample morning sunlight and some afternoon shade in especially hot climates. Avoid placing them in areas that are too shaded, as this can impede their blooming.
TemperatureDahlias perform well in a range of temperatures but grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with night temperatures slightly cooler. They can handle a maximum temperature up to the low 90s and a minimum temperature down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit before they start to experience stress. The ideal temperature range is crucial for healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
PruningPruning dahlias, often referred to as deadheading, encourages more blooms and a longer blooming season. Prune spent flowers regularly to redirect the plant's energy into producing more blossoms. Additionally, cut back the plants in late fall after the first frost has killed the foliage, leaving about four to six inches of stem above ground level.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with a pH level of around 6.5 to 7.0. A fertile loam-based mix with added organic matter such as compost or aged manure will provide the nutrients needed. For Dahlia 'Andrew Magson', incorporate perlite or vermiculite to ensure adequate drainage.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Andrew Magson', typically don't need repotting as they are not grown as long-term potted plants. Instead, their tubers are lifted after the first frost in fall, stored for winter, and replanted in spring.
Humidity & MistingDahlias, like 'Andrew Magson', thrive in environments with average humidity levels. They do not require especially high humidity and can tolerate the humidity levels typically found outdoors in their growing season.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and fertile potting mix for indoor Dahlias.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil with compost, and ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Andrew Magson' begins with the planting of a tuber in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The tubers quickly sprout, and the dahlia grows vigorously, forming a bushy plant with compound leaves. Throughout the summer, the plant produces its distinctive and colorful spiky or cactus-type flowers, which can be used for cuttings or enjoyed in the garden. As the plant matures, it continues to bloom until the first frost in the fall. After flowering, the plant's growth slows, and the foliage will die back with the onset of colder temperatures and frosts. The tubers are then dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place during the winter to be replanted the next spring, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating a Dahlia 'Andrew Magson', which is a type of Small Cactus Dahlia, is through division. This process typically takes place in the spring, just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, you would carefully dig up the tuberous roots of the dahlia after the foliage has died back and the plant is dormant. Clean the soil from the tubers and allow them to dry for a few days. Then, using a sharp knife, divide the clumps, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from where the new growth will emerge. The cut surfaces should be allowed to callus over for a day before replanting. Plant the divisions at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) ensuring the eyes are pointing upwards, and space them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to provide enough room for growth.
