Dahlia Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' (Sin)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' is a beautifully ornamental plant known for its showy flowers and lush foliage. The flowers are the most striking feature, characterized by their layered petals which bloom in a vibrant hue, and at their core, they often boast a contrasting eye, hence the name 'Bright Eyes'. This eye-catching center is usually a different color, giving a striking effect against the main color of the petals. The petals can range in texture from smooth to slightly ruffled, adding to the plant's allure. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' is comprised of deep green leaves that provide a lush backdrop to the vivid blooms. The leaves have a typical dahlia shape, being somewhat ovate with pointed tips and are subtly serrated along the edges. Each leaf is attached to the plant by its own individual stem, which sprouts from the main stalk of the plant. In full bloom, this dahlia is a bountiful display of color and form, often serving as an eye-catching addition to any garden or floral arrangement. The overall appearance of Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' is one of classic beauty, with its contrasting eye giving it a unique and modern twist that can enliven any space with its bright, cheery presence.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Bright Eyes.
Common names
Dahlia 'Bright Eyes'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including Dahlia 'Bright Eyes', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is typically no serious danger associated with ingesting parts of this plant, and it is often not associated with any poisoning symptoms. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential presence of pesticide residues or other potential allergens.
To pets
Dahlias are also considered non-toxic to pets, meaning that Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' should not pose a significant risk of poisoning to dogs, cats, or other household pets. However, ingestion of plant material may occasionally result in mild gastrointestinal upset due to the ingestion of non-food items, which can cause symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. It's always best to prevent pets from ingesting plants as individuals may have unique sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are vital for pollination and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: With its vibrant colors and striking patterns, this plant adds visual interest and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Provides Cut Flowers: The blooms are long-lasting and ideal for bouquets and floral arrangements, bringing the beauty of the garden indoors.
- Supports Biodiversity: As part of a diverse garden planting, dahlias can contribute to a habitat that supports a wide range of wildlife.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are generally easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, and they flourish in a variety of conditions.
- Motivates Gardening Activities: Growing dahlias like 'Bright Eyes' can encourage outdoor activity and foster a connection with nature, which can be beneficial for mental and physical health.
- Versatile Planting Options: This variety can be grown in borders, containers, or as a statement plant, providing flexibility in garden design.
Medical Properties- This 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 in dye production where the petals provide natural dyes for fabrics and cosmetics, offering a range of colors depending on the variety of the flower.
- In some cultures, dahlia tubers are used to create a plant-based paint for arts and crafts, exploiting their starch content and vivid coloring.
- The sturdy stems of dahlias may be woven to create small baskets or decorative items, showcasing the plant's structural uses.
- Flower enthusiasts sometimes use pressed dahlia petals in the art of flower pressing to create decorative art pieces or bookmarks.
- Dahlia flowers can serve as biodegradable confetti for outdoor celebrations, decomposing naturally without harming the environment.
- As part of an educational garden, dahlias can be used to teach horticulture and botany, showcasing plant development from tubers to blooms.
- Dahlias are sometimes incorporated into perfumery; their unique scent can contribute to the creation of floral fragrances.
- Garden waste from pruned dahlia plants can be repurposed into a nutrient-rich compost that benefits other plants in the garden.
- In photography and the visual arts, dahlias can be used as subjects or backgrounds, valued for their vibrant colors and varied forms.
- The large and intricate blossoms of dahlias can be utilized as natural canvases for educational demonstrations of pollination and flower anatomy.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace under Pressure: Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' is often associated with maintaining poise and composure even in stressful situations, reflecting its ability to bloom in a variety of conditions.
- Diversity: With its varied forms and colors, the dahlia represents diversity and uniqueness, encouraging individuality.
- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' exudes a natural elegance and a dignified aura, often used to signify a noble grace.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are symbolic of commitment and an everlasting bond, making them popular in floral arrangements for significant occasions that honor such values.
- Creativity: Reflecting the dahlia's intricate petals and striking appearance, it symbolizes creativity and the drive to express oneself artistically.
- Change and Transformation: Because dahlias bloom seasonally and not continuously, they represent change and the ability to thrive despite new beginnings or the end of an era.
WaterDahlia 'Bright Eyes' should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, generally two to three times a week depending on weather conditions and soil type. The top inch of the soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings. It's important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Each plant will typically require about 1-2 gallons of water per week, but this can vary based on temperature and humidity. Always check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly to avoid overwatering or underwatering.
LightDahlia 'Bright Eyes' thrives in full sunlight, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sun each day. The best spot for these dahlias is in an area that receives morning sunlight and some partial shade in the afternoon, especially in hotter climates. Avoid placing them in full shade, as this will result in weak stems and fewer blooms.
TemperatureDahlia 'Bright Eyes' prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures of about 50°F but anything colder can damage the plant. The maximum temperature they can tolerate is around 90°F; beyond this, the plants may show signs of heat stress. It's crucial to protect dahlias from frost and to consider lifting the tubers in the fall if you live in a zone that experiences freezing temperatures.
PruningPruning Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' is essential for maintaining plant health, encouraging vigorous growth, and promoting more blooms. Pinch or cut back the main stem when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage branching. Throughout the blooming season, regularly deadhead spent flowers to stimulate continuous blooming. The best time for pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter with a pH of around 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix would consist of equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingDahlias, like 'Bright Eyes', should be repotted annually in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. Repotting ensures they have fresh soil and room to grow.
Humidity & MistingDahlias thrive in moderate humidity levels. Maintain ambient humidity without making the conditions too wet, which can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and regular feeding.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, spacing 18-24in apart, staking as needed.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' (commonly known as Dahlia) begins with seed germination or planting of tubers in the spring, after the threat of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed. Seedlings or sprouts emerge and the plant enters the vegetative growth stage, producing stems, leaves, and a root system. Once established, the Dahlia enters the budding stage, where flower buds develop in response to increasing daylight. This is followed by the blooming stage, where the distinctive bright flowers of the 'Bright Eyes' variety open and can be enjoyed throughout the summer and into early fall. After flowering, the Dahlia enters a period of senescence with the first frost; the above-ground plant parts die back and the plant goes dormant for the winter. Tubers are either left in the ground if the climate permits, or dug up, stored, and replanted the next spring, thus continuing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late winter - early spring
For the Dahlia 'Bright Eyes', the most popular method of propagation is through division of tubers. This is ideally done in the spring, just before the growing season begins. To propagate by division, first, the clump of tubers should be carefully lifted from the ground after the dahlia has finished blooming and the foliage has died back. The tubers should be cleaned of soil and allowed to dry for a few days. Once dry, the tubers can be separated by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or growth point. The individual tubers are then planted about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters). Propagated dahlias will typically bloom in the same year they are planted.
