Dahlia Dahlia 'Cascade Ken' (Col)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Cascade Ken' is a striking flowering plant with a vivid display of colors. The blossoms of this variety are particularly showy, featuring a blend of hues that can include shades of pink, lavender, and other pastel tones that gradually transition towards the tips of the petals. The petals themselves are arranged in a collarette form, which means they are organized in a ring or whorl around a central disc. The flowers stand out against the backdrop of rich green foliage that is characteristic of dahlias. The petals of the 'Cascade Ken' dahlia are notable for their delicate appearance and may display a slightly ruffled or wavy edge, adding to their ornamental appeal. Each bloom is a composite, meaning that what appears to be a single flower is actually a collection of smaller florets. The central disc florets tend to be more tubular and contrastingly colored, often appearing in a bright yellow or golden hue, which adds depth and complexity to the overall floral display. Dahlias are known for their prolonged blooming period, and 'Cascade Ken' is no exception, providing a generous display of flowers through the summer and into the fall, with the exact timing depending on local climate conditions. The plant itself has a sturdy structure, with strong stems that support the blooms, making it a popular choice for cut-flower arrangements and garden displays. Overall, Dahlia 'Cascade Ken' is a vibrant and attractive plant that captures attention through its lush blooms, diverse color palette, and elegant form, making it a standout addition to any garden or floral collection.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia, Georgina
Common names
Dahlia 'Cascade Ken' (Col).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety 'Cascade Ken', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They are not known to contain any substances that are poisonous upon ingestion. However, as with any plant material, if consumed in large quantities, they may cause mild stomach upset due to the fiber content or idiosyncratic reactions in some people.
To pets
Dahlias, including the 'Cascade Ken' variety, are also not toxic to pets. They are not known to contain any harmful toxins that would affect dogs, cats, or other household pets if ingested. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion may sometimes result in gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, or diarrhea if the animal consumes too much plant material, particularly if they are not used to it.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Dahlias are known for their decorative flowers, and 'Cascade Ken' produces vibrant, cascading blooms that can add visual interest to gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Uses: This variety of dahlia is suitable for borders, containers, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements, offering multiple applications in horticulture.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which are important for the pollination of plants and the overall health of gardens.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias, including 'Cascade Ken', have a long flowering period from midsummer to fall, providing color in the garden for an extended time.
- Easy to Grow: With the right conditions, dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate and maintain, making them accessible to a wide range of gardeners.
- Diversity of Colors and Forms: The genus Dahlia has a wide range of colors and flower shapes, and 'Cascade Ken' contributes to this diversity with its unique cascading flower form.
- Great for Shows: Dahlias are popular in garden shows and competitions, and varieties like 'Cascade Ken' can be especially appealing for their distinctive characteristics and beauty.
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 to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering a range of colors from pinks to yellows depending on the part of the plant used.
- The tubers of dahlias are edible when cooked and can be used as a root vegetable similar to a potato in various culinary dishes.
- Dahlia petals can be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to make decorative edible garnishes for cakes and desserts.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be used in arts and crafts for making lightweight, natural straws or as tubes for decorative structures.
- Dahlia blooms are used by some gardeners as a color guide when planning and arranging other aspects of their garden landscape.
- When dried, petals and blooms from dahlias can be incorporated into homemade potpourri blends for a natural fragrance.
- Dahlias serve as an inspiration for artists and photographers due to their vibrant colors and symmetrical patterns.
- The plant can be utilized in educational settings to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and genetic diversity among flowers.
- Dahlia stalks and foliage can be shredded and added to compost piles to enrich the soil with organic matter as they decompose.
- Dahlias can be used in eco-friendly burial practices where biodegradable plant materials are preferred.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Dignity and Elegance: The dahlia is often associated with dignity and elegance due to its layered petals and impressive presence.
- Change and Variety: With a vast array of colors and forms, dahlias symbolize diversity, change, and variety, reflecting the many sides of life and personal growth.
- Commitment and Bond Everlasting: Because dahlias bloom for extended periods, they can represent long-term commitment and an ever-lasting bond between two people.
- Involvement and a Spirit of Adventure: Dahlias inspire a sense of involvement and a passion for adventure, possibly due to the flower's history of being discovered in exotic locations and the diversity within the species.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Cascade Ken', prefer consistent moisture, so water them deeply once or twice a week, aiming for about one to two gallons per watering session depending on the weather conditions. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. In hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to maintain the moisture level, while in cooler, wet weather, scale back on the watering. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightDahlias like 'Cascade Ken' thrive in full sunlight, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these plants would be in a garden area that gets ample morning sunlight and is partially shaded from the intense sun in the afternoon. Avoid planting Dahlias in full shade, as this will inhibit their blooming and can lead to overly leggy growth.
TemperatureDahlias such as 'Cascade Ken' do best in temperatures that range from 60°F to 75°F. They can survive a minimum temperature of around 50°F, but anything lower, especially frost, can be detrimental to the plant. The maximum temperature for healthy growth doesn't usually exceed 90°F. To ensure the best growth, plant Dahlias after the danger of frost has passed and when the soil temperature is at least 60°F.
PruningPruning Dahlias, including 'Cascade Ken', is done to encourage bushier growth and more prolific blooming. Pinch off the main stem once the plant is about 12 inches tall to promote branching. Deadheading throughout the growing season by removing spent flowers will also encourage additional blooms. Cut back the entire plant only after the first frost has killed off the top growth, preparing the plant for winter dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Cascade Ken' would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingDahlias, including Dahlia 'Cascade Ken', should be repotted annually. They are usually repotted in the spring after the last frost when the tubers are planted out or potted up.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Cascade Ken' prefers moderate humidity levels, ideally between 40-60%. These dahlias do not require excessively high humidity but need good air circulation to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, pot in well-draining soil, and maintain moderate humidity.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, space 18-24 inches apart, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Cascade Ken' begins its life as a tuber planted in well-drained soil after the last frost of spring. The tuber sprouts stems and leaves as temperatures rise and grows into a bushy plant, at which point it requires staking to support future blooms. Throughout the summer, it enters a vegetative growth phase, producing large, colorful blossoms that can be cut for displays or left to adorn the garden. After flowering, the plant begins to wilt as the weather cools and the first frost approaches. To preserve the tubers for the next season, they are dug up before a hard freeze, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place over winter. In the following spring, the cycle starts anew with the planting of the stored or newly acquired tubers.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Dahlia 'Cascade Ken', commonly referred to simply as Dahlia, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method considering the plant's growth habit. The best time for dividing dahlia tubers is in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge and you can clearly see the sprouts. The proper way to carry out this division involves carefully digging up the overwintered tuber clump and gently washing off the soil to reveal the natural dividing lines between tubers. Each section that is cut away to create a new plant should include at least one eye or sprout. It's important to use a sharp, clean knife to prevent infection and damage. Once divided, the new tuber sections can be planted immediately at a depth of about 6 inches (about 15 centimeters) in well-drained soil, ensuring the eye or sprout is facing upwards. This allows each division to develop into a strong, independent dahlia plant.
