Dahlia Dahlia 'Chat Noir' (S-c)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Chat Noir' is a striking plant characterized by its deep, velvety red to burgundy blooms. The large, fully double flowers have an almost black undertone that gives them a dramatic and sultry appearance. Each flower head consists of numerous tightly rolled petals that create a rounded, pincushion-like shape, showcasing the immense depth of color and textural interest. The petals have a subtle sheen to them, reflecting light and adding a lustrous quality to the flower. As the blooms mature, they may exhibit a somewhat variable color pattern, where the rich reds might blend into shades of near-black and dark maroon. The contrast between the dark flowers and the bright green foliage creates an alluring display in the garden. The leaves of Dahlia 'Chat Noir' are medium green and have a pinnate shape with serrated edges, which adds a fine texture that complements the bold flowers. The plant has a sturdy, bushy habit, with multiple stems branching out from the base that support the heavy bloom heads. Throughout its blooming season, this variety is known to be an excellent addition to borders and is also popular for cutting gardens due to the long vase life and visual impact of its show-stopping flowers.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Black Cat Dahlia, Cactus Dahlia Chat Noir, Chat Noir Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Chat Noir' (S-c)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Chat Noir', are not considered toxic to humans. Consequently, they generally do not cause harm if touched or ingested in small quantities. However, they can occasionally cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large amounts. It is recommended to avoid eating dahlias due to the potential for gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Chat Noir', are also considered non-toxic to pets. There are no significant toxic effects expected if pets ingest parts of the dahlia plant. However, as with humans, consuming large amounts could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. It is wise to discourage pets from eating ornamental plants to avoid any potential stomach upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Eye-catching blooms: Dahlia 'Chat Noir' is known for its stunning dark red, almost black flowers that make a dramatic impact in any garden.
- Attracts pollinators: The plant's large, vivid blossoms attract bees and butterflies, which help pollinate your garden.
- Long flowering season: Dahlias bloom from midsummer until the first frosts, providing extended color in the garden.
- Great for cut flowers: The blooms are long-lasting when cut, making them perfect for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Versatile planting options: They can be planted in beds, borders, and containers, offering flexibility for garden design.
- Easy to grow: With proper care, dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate, even for beginner gardeners.
- Improves garden aesthetics: Dahlias' striking appearance can enhance the beauty of garden spaces and landscapes.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia 'Chat Noir' petals can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering shades of pinks and purples depending on the mordant used.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or piping in arts and crafts, offering an eco-friendly alternative to plastic.
- Edible varieties of dahlias, including the tubers of 'Chat Noir', can be used in culinary creations, providing a source of starch similar to potatoes.
- Fibers from the stems and leaves can be harvested to make paper, providing an interesting texture and color for specialty crafts.
- The plant's ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies can be utilized in gardens to enhance the pollination of fruits and vegetables.
- As a plant with a strong structure, dahlia stems can be incorporated into living garden sculptures or used as natural stakes for other plants.
- The vibrant colors of the dahlia 'Chat Noir' make it useful for edible flower garnishes in high-end culinary presentations, adding visual appeal to dishes.
- The large blooms can be used as natural bowls for holding dip or seasonings during outdoor dining events.
- Finished dahlia blooms can be composted to create a nutrient-rich addition to garden soil, improving soil health and plant vigor.
- The moisture-rich stems can provide water to small insects or be used as part of bug hotels, creating habitats for garden-friendly insects.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not typically mentioned in traditional Feng Shui practice, but in a broader sense, vibrant flowers such as dahlias can introduce Yang energy into a space, which can be used to promote active energies and could be placed in areas that require more vitality and manifestation of intentions, such as the south sector of a garden or room to enhance fame and recognition.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Chat Noir', with its structured form and deep burgundy petals, conveys a sense of refinement and poised beauty.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are often used to express sentiments of a lasting commitment, making them ideal for anniversaries or significant occasions in relationships.
- Change and Transformation: The diverse forms and colors of dahlias, including the 'Chat Noir', symbolize embracing change and positive transformation.
- Strength and Grace Under Pressure: Dahlias bloom from summer through fall, representing the ability to stand gracefully through challenging times.
- Warning and Betrayal: Though less common, some cultures may associate dahlias with a sense of warning against betrayal, possibly due to their rich and sometimes dark hues.
- Unique Beauty: The distinct, almost black petals of 'Chat Noir' dahlia highlight individualism and the uniqueness of each person's beauty.
WaterBlack Dahlia should be watered deeply to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, with a frequency of about twice a week during the growing season, depending on weather conditions and soil type. Aim to provide about 1-2 gallons of water per week, adjusting for rainfall, to support its growth and flowering. Always check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering and avoid overhead watering to prevent disease.
LightBlack Dahlias thrive best in full sunlight, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these flowers is in an area where they can receive the morning sun and are protected from the intense afternoon heat, which can be harsh in some climates.
TemperatureBlack Dahlias prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive a minimum temperature of 50°F, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below this can be detrimental to the plant. Keep them away from frost conditions, as they are not frost-tolerant and the ideal growing environment should avoid any temperature extremes.
PruningFor Black Dahlias, pruning, known as deadheading, helps encourage more blooms by removing spent flowers. Cut the flower stems back to a pair of leaf nodes to promote bushier growth and more flowers. The best time to prune is throughout the blooming season, as flowers begin to fade.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Black Dahlia should be well-draining, fertile, and lightly acidic to neutral in pH (6.0 to 7.0). A mix of loam, peat, and sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingBlack Dahlias should be repotted annually, ideally in the spring when new growth begins. Tubers can be divided at this time to propagate new plants.
Humidity & MistingBlack Dahlias prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable to most typical outdoor conditions; avoid overly humid environments which may promote fungal disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good potting soil, and ample space for Black Dahlia.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, watch for pests, and stake Black Dahlia.
Hardiness zone
Zones 8-10 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Chat Noir' (S-c), also known as Dahlia 'Black Cat,' begins with a tuber planted in well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures have warmed. It then germinates, leading to the emergence of new shoots that quickly develop into a bushy plant. The foliage matures and the plant starts to bud as long daylight hours and warm weather stimulate growth. Following the budding stage, the iconic dark red to maroon flowers, characteristic of the 'Chat Noir' cultivar, appear in mid to late summer, depending on the climate. After the flowering period, which can last until the first frost, the plant enters a dormancy stage where the top growth dies back, and the tuber can be dug up, stored, and overwintered in a cool, frost-free place. This cycle repeats when the tubers are replanted the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating a Dahlia 'Chat Noir', often referred to as Chat Noir Dahlia, is through the division of its tubers. This procedure is typically conducted in the spring just before the last frost date when the tubers begin to sprout and you can see the 'eyes', or growth points. To propagate, carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground using a fork, trying not to damage them. Wash off any soil and allow the tubers to dry. Using a sharp and clean knife, divide the clumps ensuring that each section has at least one eye. These sections can then be planted directly into the garden about 6-8 inches (15-20 centimeters) deep, making sure the eyes are facing upwards, and spaced about 18-24 inches (45-60 centimeters) apart. Ensure you provide adequate water to establish the new plants, especially during dry periods.
