Dahlia Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' is a strikingly beautiful plant known for its vibrant blooms that demand attention in any garden setting. The flowers of this dahlia variety display a stunning range of soft peach to yellow tones, creating a warm and inviting color palette. The blossoms are characterized by their delicate, layered petals that artfully unfurl around a central disk, giving the flower a full, almost fluffy appearance. Each petal is gently curved, contributing to the overall rounded shape of the flower, which can be described as having a pincushion-like structure due to the tightly arranged petals. The petals sometimes exhibit subtle hints of color gradation, transitioning from a lighter base to a deeper tip, adding depth and complexity to the flower's appearance. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' is lush and green, forming a complementary backdrop to the brightness of the blooms. The leaves are typically elongated with pointed tips and serrated edges, attaching to the stems in an alternating pattern that adds to the plant's fullness. With its eye-catching flowers and verdant foliage, the Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' makes for an impressive display in borders, beds, and as a standout specimen in garden landscapes. It's also a popular choice for cut flower arrangements due to the longevity of its blooms and the striking visual appeal it brings to any bouquet.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported for humans from ingesting any part of the dahlia plant. However, as with any non-food plant, it is usually advisable not to consume plant parts as they may cause an upset stomach or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. They should not cause serious harm if ingested by pets. However, ingestion of any plant material can potentially lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if consumed in large quantities. It is always a good idea to keep an eye on pets and prevent them from eating ornamental plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
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: Produces beautiful and vibrant flowers that add color and visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers of the Dahlia attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, aiding in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlias have a long flowering season, from summer through fall, which provides a lasting display of blooms.
- Versatile Landscaping Plant: Suitable for a wide range of landscaping uses including borders, beds, and as focal points in garden design.
- Cut Flower Production: The blossoms make excellent cut flowers due to their durability and long vase life, making them popular for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Cultural Significance: Dahlias are often used in festivals and as garden specimens to showcase horticultural beauty and skill.
- Easy to Propagate: They can be propagated through division or cuttings, allowing gardeners to easily increase their stock of plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias can be used as a natural dye, where the petals of 'Blyton Softer Gleam' can provide a range of sunset hues to textiles and fabrics.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as eco-friendly straws or be incorporated into biodegradable art projects.
- Dried dahlia tubers can be grated and mixed with grains to feed birds, offering a nutrient-rich alternative during the scarcity of winter months.
- Dahlia flowers are used in making floral jam or jelly, which can provide a unique flavor and color, especially from the vibrant 'Blyton Softer Gleam' variety.
- Ground dahlia petals can be mixed into potpourri, providing a beautiful visual element and a delicate scent to a room.
- The shape and structure of dahlias can inspire architectural designs and elements, including the pattern of the petals or the spiraling arrangement of the blooms.
- In photography, dahlias like 'Blyton Softer Gleam' can be used as a subject for practicing macro photography due to their intricate petal patterns and captivating colors.
- Dahlias can be used as a natural pest repellant in gardens, where their bright flowers may attract predatory insects that help control pests.
- The spent blooms and foliage of dahlias can be composted to enrich garden soil with essential nutrients beneficial for plant growth.
- Dahlia flowers can be frozen in ice cubes to create an elegant and decorative touch for summertime drinks and cocktails.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Due to their sophisticated bloom structure and striking presence, dahlias are often associated with elegance and dignity, embodying gracefulness and poise.
- Change and Diversity: With the wide range of colors and forms, dahlias can symbolize embracing change and diversity, serving as a reminder of the variety and dynamism in the world.
- Creativity: Dahlias inspire creativity, as they are a favorite among gardeners and florists for their unique patterns and vibrant colors, sparking imagination and innovation.
- Commitment and Bond: As dahlias stand out in a garden with their lush appearance, they frequently represent a strong bond or commitment, making them suitable for celebrations of love and friendship.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are hardy flowers that can bloom in challenging conditions. They symbolize inner strength and the ability to thrive in adverse circumstances.
- Wealth and Prosperity: The lushness of the dahlia often makes it a symbol of wealth and prosperity, symbolizing a bountiful period or the richness of life.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Blyton Softer Gleam', require a consistent watering schedule to thrive, particularly during the growing season. It is best to water them deeply two to three times a week, depending on the weather conditions, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Using a soaker hose or drip irrigation system is ideal to deliver moisture directly to the root zone and avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Each plant typically needs around 1-2 gallons of water during each watering session, but this can vary based on the size of the plant and environmental factors.
LightDahlias like 'Blyton Softer Gleam' grow best in a location with full sun. This means the plant should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. An ideal spot for this dahlia is one where it can soak in the morning sun, which is less harsh than the afternoon light. Partial shade can be tolerated, especially in hotter climates, but too much shade will reduce blooming and can lead to leggy growth.
TemperatureDahlias such as the 'Blyton Softer Gleam' prefer a moderate temperature range, with ideal conditions being between 60°F to 70°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of about 50°F but anything lower, especially frost, can harm them. The maximum temperature for dahlias should generally stay below 90°F as extremely hot temperatures can cause stress and impede growth.
PruningPruning Dahlias, including 'Blyton Softer Gleam', encourages better flowering and a more attractive plant shape. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut back the stems to about 3 inches during late autumn after the first frost has blackened the foliage, as this marks the end of the growing season. Before winter storage of the tubers, remove all the dead foliage and stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Dahlias includes a rich, well-draining loam with plenty of organic matter to provide nutrients. A pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for Dahlias to thrive, so slightly acidic to neutral pH balances work well. Amend the soil with compost and peat moss to improve texture and fertility.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Blyton Softer Gleam', generally don't need frequent repotting as they are often grown as annuals. However, if grown as perennials, division and repotting every 2 to 3 years in the spring can rejuvenate the plants and enhance flowering.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable and can tolerate the varying humidity conditions often found in outdoor environments. It's best to avoid extremely high humidity as it may encourage fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-drained soil, and avoid over-watering.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, rich soil, and provide regular water and feeding.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' starts as a tuber, which is planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil is warm. It germinates and sprouts into a seedling with initial foliage appearing above ground. The plant then enters a vegetative stage, where it grows stems and leaves, gathering sunlight and nutrients. After this period of growth, it enters the blooming phase, producing vibrant flowers typically from midsummer to the first fall frost. Once the blooming is over and temperatures drop, the plant begins to die back, with the aerial parts withering, while the tuber goes dormant for the winter. Tubers can be lifted and stored in a cool, dry place to be replanted the following spring, thus completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Dahlia 'Blyton Softer Gleam' can be propagated most commonly through the division of its tubers. This process is best done in early spring, just as the plants start to sprout and you can see growth points or 'eyes'. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground using a fork, taking care not to damage them. Once lifted, shake off any excess soil and use a sharp, clean knife to cut the tubers ensuring that each section has at least one eye. Ideally, the cut should include a portion of the original stem attached to the tuber's section. After division, the tubers can be planted directly into the ground or started in pots before transplanting, positioned so that the top of the tuber where the eyes are located is just below the surface of the soil. It's important to keep the soil moist but not saturated to encourage growth in the coming weeks.
