Dahlia Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' (PBR) (Misc)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' is a captivating plant that showcases exquisite blooms of considerable charm. These flowers are characterized by their elegant, creamy-white petals that radiate outwards from a central disc, it's like a pastel sunburst with a gentle gradient that can range from a soft yellow to a muted coral at the very center. The petals are notably layered, with the outermost ones gracefully curving downwards, adding a sense of fullness and dimension to the blossom. The plant itself is robust and bushy, with lush green foliage that provides a striking contrast to the delicate beauty of the flowers. The leaves are typically deep green with a slightly serrated edge, and they are held on sturdy stems that rise up to support the blooms. The flower heads of the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' are quite substantial and command attention, making them excellent for cutting and bringing indoors to create striking floral arrangements. As a cultivar with the denomination '(PBR)' in its name, 'Classic Swanlake' is subject to plant breeders' rights, which means it has been recognized for its distinctive characteristics. In the landscape, this dahlia variety brings a sense of sophistication and classic elegance, and it is often used to elevate the overall aesthetic of gardens, borders, and outdoor spaces. With its stunning flowers and graceful poise, Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' is a plant that is both enchanting and mesmerizing, a true classic among dahlias.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Classic Swanlake Dahlia, PBR Swanlake Dahlia.
Common names
Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, like with any plant material, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to dahlias if they ingest or handle the plant. Although not common, if any part of the dahlia were ingested in large quantities, it could potentially cause stomach upset, nausea, or discomfort. It is advisable to discourage children from eating any plant material, including dahlias.
To pets
Dahlias, including the variety known as 'Classic Swanlake', are not toxic to pets. These plants are generally considered safe around animals, and ingestion is unlikely to cause more than mild gastrointestinal upset, if any symptoms occur at all. As with any non-food item, if a pet were to ingest a large quantity of dahlia plant material, it might experience vomiting or diarrhea simply due to the ingestion of an unusual item. If any adverse symptoms are observed after a pet ingests dahlias, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Blooms: Dahlias are known for their striking and ornamental flowers.
- Variety of Uses: Perfect for borders, pots, and as cut flowers in arrangements.
- Pollinator Attraction: Attracts bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long Flowering Season: Offers extended periods of color in the garden, usually from mid-summer to fall.
- Easy Propagation: Tubers can be divided to create new plants for the next season.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Inspiration: The dramatic white petals and form of the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' can inspire artists and designers, serving as a muse for paintings, textile patterns, and decorative motifs.
- Floral Photography: With their intricate structure and stunning colors, these dahlias are excellent subjects for macro photography, fostering the appreciation of the minute details of nature.
- Natural Dyes: The pigments found in the dahlia petals can be extracted to create natural dyes for fabric and paper crafts.
- Culinary Decoration: The non-toxic nature of Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' allows for its petals to be used as a decorative and edible garnish on cakes and desserts.
- Teaching Tool: The Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' can be used in schools and educational programs to demonstrate botany concepts, such as flower anatomy and pollination.
- Mood Enhancer: Arranging these dahlias in a living or work space can elevate mood and create a positive ambiance, due to their bright colors and aesthetic appeal.
- Memory Celebrations: Dahlias, symbolizing grace under pressure, can be used in events or services designed to celebrate the life and memories of loved ones.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Petals of the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' can be dried and used as biodegradable confetti for weddings and celebrations.
- Horticultural Competitions: Gardeners can cultivate this dahlia variety to enter into flower shows or competitions, encouraging horticultural excellence.
- Creative Crafting: Pressed petals and flowers of the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' can be incorporated into scrapbooking, greeting cards, and other paper crafts for a touch of nature.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' (PBR), often referred to as simply 'Dahlia,' commonly symbolizes elegance and dignity due to its sophisticated form and the serene impression it gives, akin to a swan on water.
- Change and Variety: With the myriad of shapes, sizes, and colors dahlias come in, they can represent diversity, change, and variety, indicating an embrace of the different facets of life.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias often stand for long-lasting commitment and the everlasting bond between two people, making them a popular choice for wedding celebrations.
- Creative Expression: The dahlia's vivid shades and unique patterns embody the spirit of creativity and the pursuit of expressive freedom.
- Inner Strength: Because they bloom for a long time and survive until the late seasons, dahlias also signify inner strength, resilience, and the ability to stand graceful under pressure.
WaterDahlias, such as the 'Classic Swanlake', should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, and the top inch of soil should be allowed to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering. Generally, watering once or twice a week with 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant is sufficient, depending on the weather conditions; more frequent watering may be necessary during hot, dry periods. Be sure to water the plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightThe 'Classic Swanlake' Dahlia thrives in a location that receives full sun exposure, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. This will provide the energy needed for optimal growth and bloom production. The plant should be situated in a spot where it is exposed to the morning sun, which is less intense, and protected from the strong late afternoon sun if possible.
TemperatureDahlias like 'Classic Swanlake' prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F but can tolerate higher temperatures if they are well-watered. The plants should be protected from frost, which can damage them; they will not survive in temperatures below 20°F. For best growth, maintain a garden environment where nighttime temperatures do not drop below 60°F.
PruningPruning 'Classic Swanlake' Dahlias is important for maintaining plant health and encouraging a more prolific bloom. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about 16 inches tall to promote bushiness and remove dead or damaged stems throughout the growing season to maintain vigor. The best time for major pruning is in the spring as new growth appears and again in the fall after the first frost when cutting back the plants before winter storage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Classic Swanlake' thrives in a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter, including peat moss, compost, and perlite or vermiculite. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 6.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, including the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake', should be repotted annually, typically after the last frost when beginning a new growing season, as these tubers grow vigorously and can outgrow their pots each year.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels and are adaptable to a wide range, but they do best in environments where the humidity is around 40-60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake' in bright indirect light and maintain moist soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun after frost; keep soil moist and well-drained.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlias typically begin their life cycle as tubers planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The first stage of growth is the sprouting of green shoots from the tubers, which develop into stems and leaves. The vegetative growth phase includes the expansion of the foliage and the development of a sturdy stem system. As the plant matures, it enters the flowering stage, where buds form and blossom into the characteristic vibrant blooms of the Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake'. After the flowering period, which can last into late summer or early fall, the plant begins to die back with the first frost of the season. To complete the cycle, the tubers can be dug up after the first frost, stored during winter, and replanted the next spring, allowing for a new growth cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Propogation: Dahlia 'Classic Swanlake', commonly known as simply "Dahlia", is often propagated by division, which is a popular and efficient method. The best time for division is in the spring when the plant is just beginning to send up new growth after winter dormancy. To propagate dahlias by division, carefully dig up the tuberous roots after the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature has reached about 60°F (15.6°C). Wash the soil off the tubers and cut them into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one eye, which is a point from which new growth will sprout. Allow the cut surfaces to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, plant the divisions about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eyes pointing up. Water the divisions gently to settle the soil around the tubers and wait for the new dahlia plants to emerge.
