Dahlia Dahlia 'Autumn Lustre' (WL)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Autumn Lustre' presents a stunning display of vibrant and lush blooms. These flowers exhibit a rich blend of colors, which may include fiery hues of orange, red, and yellow, reminiscent of a picturesque autumn sunset. The petals are typically arranged in a unique formation, where each petal might curve gracefully towards the sky or roll at the edges to form a distinctive tubular shape. This results in a layered effect that adds depth and texture to each flower head. Slight variations in color intensity or strokes of contrasting shades might adorn individual petals, further enhancing their visual appeal. The dahlia's foliage provides an elegant backdrop to its flamboyant blossoms, with deep green leaves that are pinnately divided with serrated edges. The overall impression is one of extravagant beauty, with the flowers often being a focal point in gardens or as cut flowers in arrangements for their remarkable and eye-catching appearance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Autumn Lustre Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Autumn Lustre' (WL)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting dahlias, and they are generally considered safe. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities to handling or accidental ingestion can occur, so it is always prudent to handle plants with care and not consume them unless they are known to be edible.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to pets, such as dogs and cats. They are not known to contain any substances that are poisonous to pets. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset or an allergic reaction in some pets. If a pet ingests a significant amount of dahlia, symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea may occur. In such cases, it's a good practice to monitor your pet and consult with a veterinarian if any adverse symptoms appear after ingestion.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Adds vibrant color and distinct form to gardens with its rich hues and full, showy blooms.
- Attracts Pollinators: Provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Extended Blooming Season: Offers long-lasting flowers from mid-summer to fall, maintaining garden interest.
- Easy to Grow: Adaptable to a range of soil types and conditions, suitable for gardeners of varying experience levels.
- Versatile Landscaping Plant: Can be used in beds, borders, and containers for diverse garden design.
- Provides Cut Flowers: Sturdy stems and long-lasting blooms make excellent fresh cut arrangements.
- Cultural Significance: Often used in festivals and celebrations, symbolizing dignity and elegance.
- Improves Mental Well-being: Gardening with dahlias can reduce stress and promote relaxation through interaction with nature.
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: The petals of the dahlia can be used to produce a range of natural dyes for fabric, with colors varying depending on the hue of the flowers.
- Educational Tool: Dahlia flowers can be used in botany classes to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and genetic variation due to their diverse forms and colors.
- Fine Art: The vibrant petals of dahlias can be pressed and used in intricate flower art or to make natural pigments for painting.
- Photography Subject: Dahlias, due to their striking appearance, serve as a popular subject for photographers practicing macro and nature photography.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible varieties of dahlia petals can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts, adding an elegant touch to dishes.
- Floral Arrangement Classes: Dahlia flowers are excellent resources for teaching floral design and arrangement due to their structure and variety.
- Companion Planting: Dahlias can be planted alongside vegetables as they can help to attract pollinators like bees to the garden.
- Craft Supplies: The sturdy stems and colorful petals of dahlias can be used in crafting, such as making natural wreaths or decorating hats.
- Mood Enhancement: Placing dahlias in living areas can provide a natural mood booster due to their bright colors and beauty.
- Special Events: Dahlias can be used to create sustainable confetti or biodegradable decorations for outdoor events like weddings or garden parties.
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: The dahlia, with its intricate petals and varied forms, often represents a dignified poise and sophisticated grace.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gesture of commitment, dahlias symbolize the lasting bond and enduring connection between two individuals.
- Change and Variety: Dahlias come in an array of colors and shapes, thus they exemplify change and diversity in life.
- Creativity: The diverse forms and vibrant colors of the dahlia stand for creativity and the expression of one's own unique personality and ideals.
- Inner Strength: Dahlia flowers can endure various climates and still thrive, symbolizing inner strength and the ability to stand strong despite challenges.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply 2 to 3 times per week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. The goal is to provide a consistent moisture level without waterlogging the soil. Apply water directly to the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can promote disease. During peak growth, dahlias may need up to 1 to 2 gallons of water per week. Always check the soil before watering; if the top inch is dry, it's time to water.
LightDahlias, such as 'Autumn Lustre', thrive in full sun conditions where they can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. They perform best when placed in a location that ensures ample light throughout the day. Avoid shaded areas as insufficient light can lead to poor bloom production and elongated stems.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate temperatures and can grow in a temperature range of 60°F to 75°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 50°F and a maximum temperature up to around 90°F. For optimal growth, maintain consistent temperatures within this range and protect dahlias from extreme heat or cold.
PruningPruning dahlias is important for maintaining plant health and encouraging robust flowering. Pinch out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 12 inches in height to promote bushier growth. Throughout the growing season, remove any dead or damaged stems and spent flowers to encourage more blooms. The best time for major pruning is late fall, after the first frost when the plants are cut back before overwintering.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Dahlias should be well-draining and fertile with a neutral to slightly acidic pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A mix with two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand is ideal, ensuring nutrients and proper drainage.
RepottingDahlias typically do not need to be repotted often as they are commonly grown as annuals; however, if growing as perennials, divide the tubers every 2-3 years to rejuvenate and propagate.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer an environment with average humidity levels. They can tolerate a range of humidity conditions but do not require high humidity like some tropical plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, keep soil moist, and provide support for stems.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, enrich soil, provide space and stake stems.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Autumn Lustre', commonly known as Dahlia, begins with a dormant tuber planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil has sufficiently warmed. It germinates and sprouts into a seedling, soon developing a sturdy stem and a foliage of leaves. The plant enters a rapid vegetative growth phase where it generates more leaves and branches to capture sunlight, and a root system to absorb nutrients and water. During the flowering stage in late summer to early fall, 'Autumn Lustre' produces its distinctive bright blooms that attract pollinators before the first frosts. As temperatures drop, the Dahlia enters a period of senescence; the aerial parts of the plant die back while the tuber overwinters underground. The following spring, the cycle can be repeated by dividing the tuber or allowing it to sprout once again.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Autumn Lustre' is most commonly propagated through division, a process best performed in the spring after the last frost and when the tubers begin to sprout. By carefully separating the tubers, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can originate, gardeners can create new plants. The divisions should then be planted in well-draining soil, roughly 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate room for growth. Water the tubers well after planting, and they typically will begin to grow and produce blooms by mid to late summer. This method is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing clones of the parent plant.
