Dahlia Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' (PBR) (Misc)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' is a striking ornamental plant characterized by its vibrant floral display. The blooms of this dahlia are particularly eye-catching, featuring a stunning blend of colors. Each flower has a rich, deep pink hue at the petals' base which gracefully transitions to a softer pink at the tips, creating a bicolor effect that is both elegant and dynamic. The petals are arranged in a dense, intricate pattern that gives the flowers a full, almost spherical appearance. These petals are slightly pointed at the tips, adding to the complexity and beauty of the bloom. The center of the flower contains a group of smaller, tubular florets which may have a more intense coloration, providing a delightful contrast to the outer ray florets. The leaves of the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' are lush and typically dark green, creating a fresh backdrop that makes the flowers stand out even more. The foliage presents a defined, serrated margin which adds texture and depth to the plant's overall appearance. This plant is valued for its ornate flowers that exude a sense of classic charm and are often used in cut-flower arrangements. It is a favorite in gardens and landscapes where it adds a burst of color and a touch of sophistication. The Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' is not only visually pleasing but it also has a robust and sturdy form that holds its magnificent blooms aloft for onlookers to admire.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the dahlia plant is unlikely to cause poisoning or severe adverse health effects. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities and allergic reactions can occur, so it's advisable to avoid ingesting plant material that is not specifically meant for consumption.
To pets
Dahlias are also generally considered non-toxic to pets, including cats and dogs. The ingestion of parts of the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' is unlikely to lead to poisoning or serious health issues. Nonetheless, pets may still experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, if they consume significant quantities of the plant. If symptoms persist, it's a good idea to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.61-0.91 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' adds aesthetic value with its vibrant pink-purple flowers and lush green foliage, enhancing garden beauty.
- Long Blooming: This variety often has a lengthy blooming season that can extend from midsummer through to the first frosts, offering prolonged enjoyment.
- Attracts Pollinators: Its blooms are attractive to beneficial pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are known for being easy to cultivate, and this variety is no exception, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Versatile: This plant is suitable for borders, containers, and cutting gardens, providing versatility in garden design and usage.
- Floral Arrangements: The flowers are excellent for cutting and creating decorative indoor bouquets.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye source: The vibrant petals of the dahlia can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, giving a range of pinks and oranges depending on the mordant used.
- Insectary plant: Dahlias can attract beneficial insects to the garden, such as ladybugs and bees, which help with pollination and pest control.
- Photography subject: Due to their striking appearance, dahlias are often used by photographers as a subject to practice macro and portrait photography.
- Culinary garnish: The petals of dahlia flowers can be used as a colorful garnish for salads and desserts, adding a touch of elegance to any dish.
- Edible tubers: Dahlia tubers are edible and can be roasted or boiled similar to potatoes, offering an unusual addition to the menu.
- Watercolor paint: The petals can be crushed to make a natural watercolor paint, providing a range of shades for artists.
- Floral confetti: Dried petals of dahlias can be used as biodegradable confetti for weddings and other celebrations.
- Eco-friendly ink: The flower's pigment can be processed to create an eco-friendly ink used for writing or printing.
- Tattoo inspiration: The unique patterns and colors of dahlia flowers are sometimes used by tattoo artists to create distinctive floral tattoo designs.
- Science education: Dahlias can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, genetics, and hybridization due to their varied and manipulated forms.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not typically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance: The sophisticated structure of dahlias, including the 'Classic Rosamunde' variety, symbolizes poise and dignity.
- Change and Variety: Dahlias come in many colors and forms, representing diversity and embracing change.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias, especially when given as a gift, are often associated with a lifelong commitment or a lasting bond between two people.
- Dignity: Dahlias hold themselves with a natural grace, and in the language of flowers, they are often associated with dignity in the face of challenges.
- Creative Spirit: The intricate petals and vibrant colors of dahlias like the 'Classic Rosamunde' can be seen as a symbol of creativity and artistic expression.
- Inner Strength: Because dahlias are robust flowers that bloom late in the season, they are frequently associated with inner strength and the ability to stand out in challenging circumstances.
WaterDahlias, including the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde', should be watered thoroughly once or twice a week, providing 1 to 2 inches of water each time. During the active growing season, particularly in dry weather, they may need watering more frequently. Ensure the water reaches deep into the soil to encourage deep root development. Over-watering or allowing the plants to sit in water can cause rot, so well-drained soil is essential. Cut back on watering as the plant begins to die back at the end of the growing season.
LightDahlias like the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' thrive in a location with full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They perform best when they receive morning sunlight and some partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon. Avoid overly shaded areas as this can lead to poor blooming and increase the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperatureDahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' prefers temperatures that range between 60°F and 75°F, which are ideal for growth and flowering. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F, but frost can be detrimental to the plant. Ensure that dahlias are protected from extreme heat and cold, as temperatures above 90°F or below freezing can cause stress or damage to the plant.
PruningPruning Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde', is important to promote bushy growth and abundant flowering. Pinch out the main shoot above the third set of leaves to encourage branching. Throughout the season, deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms. Prune back the plant after the first frost in fall once the foliage has turned brown.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with organic matter. A good mix is two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite. The ideal pH for Dahlias is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.5 and 7.0.
RepottingDahlias, such as the 'Classic Rosamunde', should be repotted annually. They should be repotted in the spring when new growth begins, as they are tuberous and benefit from fresh soil each year.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Classic Rosamunde' thrive in moderate humidity. They perform best with humidity levels around 40-60%, which is typical of outdoor conditions in their growing season.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlia in bright, indirect light and rotate regularly.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil, water consistently, protect from frost.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' begins its life cycle when the tuber is planted in the ground after the last frost, typically in spring. The tuber sends up shoots which develop into sturdy stems and leaves, forming a bushy plant. Throughout the summer, the plant grows and eventually produces vibrant, rosy-pink blossoms that can be enjoyed until the first autumn frosts. After flowering, the plant's above-ground growth begins to yellow and die back as it enters dormancy for winter. Gardeners usually dig up and store the tubers in a cool, frost-free place during winter to protect them. The cycle repeats when the tubers are replanted the following spring after the risk of frost has passed.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Dahlia 'Classic Rosamunde' is commonly propagated through division of tubers, which is also the most popular method for this variety. Division is best performed in spring just before the new growth begins. Gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of dahlia tubers after the foliage has died back, usually following the first frost. The tubers are then gently cleaned and divided by cutting them with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from where new growth will emerge. The divisions can be planted immediately if the risk of frost has passed, at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to provide adequate room for growth. It's important to label the divisions if keeping track of specific cultivars and to water them moderately to help establish the new plants.
