Dahlia Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' (C)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' is a stunning ornamental flowering plant renowned for its showy blooms that command attention in any garden setting. This plant produces a prolific display of vibrant, sun-kissed flowers. The individual blossoms are characterized by their unique form, which consists of layers upon layers of petals, radiating out from the center in a symmetrical fashion. The petals themselves are a sight to behold, boasting a gradient of colors that blend harmoniously from a warm, buttery yellow at the tips to a richer, golden hue towards the base. This gradient gives the flowers an exquisite depth and complexity that can be likened to a glowing sunrise. The petals are long and slightly curved, with gentle ruffled edges that add to their overall dramatic flair. The foliage of 'Clearview Sundance' provides a lush, green backdrop to the radiant flowers. The leaves are typically bright green, with an elongated shape and a serrated margin that adds texture to the plant's profile. The plant's overall appearance is one of robust health and vitality, with stems that sturdy enough to support the weight of the substantial flowers. As a member of the Dahlia genus, 'Clearview Sundance' shares the group's characteristic beauty and charm, making it a beloved choice for gardens and floral displays. Whether planted on its own or grouped with other dahlias or complementary plants, it offers a delightful burst of color that can enliven any landscape.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not known to be toxic to humans. Generally, they do not cause symptoms of poisoning if ingested. However, like any plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities are possible, and it's always advisable to avoid ingesting plant material that is not meant for consumption.
To pets
Dahlias are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting dahlias should not result in significant symptoms of poisoning. However, it is still recommended to monitor your pet and prevent them from eating plants, as consumption of non-food plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset or an intestinal blockage.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
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- Vibrant Bloom Color: Produces bright, vibrant flowers that can be a stunning addition to any garden or landscape.
- Long Flowering Season: Offers a long flowering period, typically from mid-summer until the first frosts of the fall.
- Attracts Pollinators: Attracts a variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, promoting biodiversity.
- Highly Decorative: Can be used in decorative settings such as bouquets and floral arrangements due to its large, showy flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Known for being easy to cultivate, suitable for gardeners of all levels of experience.
- Diverse Sizes and Forms: Comes in a variety of sizes and forms, allowing for diverse garden design possibilities.
- Propagates Easily: Can be easily propagated from cuttings or division, providing an economical way to increase your collection.
- Adaptable: Adapts well to a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained conditions.
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 natural dyes for fabrics, providing a range of colors from their petals.
- The tubers of dahlias can be used as alternative carving materials for artists practicing relief carving or sculpture.
- In food presentation, dahlias can add an elegant touch as edible plate garnishes due to their vibrant colors.
- During the Victorian era, dahlias were used as a source of inspiration for patterns in textiles and wallpaper designs.
- The petals of dahlias can be pressed and included in handmade paper for a decorative accent or texture.
- Dahlia blossoms can be crystallized with sugar and used as beautiful and unique decorations for cakes and desserts.
- Some artists use dahlias as a natural stencil to create patterns in mixed media art by using the flower's silhouette.
- Dahlias can be featured in botanical photography as their intricate petals and vibrant colors offer stunning imagery.
- The robust stems of dahlias can be used in eco-friendly floral arrangements to support other, more delicate flowers.
- Dahlia flowers make attractive living mulch, which provides color among vegetable crops while helping to suppress weeds.
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: The Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' with its intricate petals and graceful appearance is often associated with sophistication and poise, representing an enduring grace and the ability to stand out with elegance.
- Change and Variety: Dahlias come in many varieties and colors, symbolizing diversity and embracing change, as they remind us of the diverse and ever-changing world around us.
- Commitment and Bond That Lasts Forever: The Dahlia's robust stems and long-lasting blooms symbolize a lifelong commitment or a bond that is intended to last eternally, making them a common gift for couples.
- Creativity: The vibrancy and unique patterns of the Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' are often seen as a source of inspiration and creativity, urging individuals to embrace their inner muse and express themselves boldly.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are flowers that thrive in a range of conditions and continue to bloom despite challenges, representing inner strength and the ability to persist through difficult circumstances.
WaterDahlias, including 'Clearview Sundance', prefer consistent moisture and should be watered deeply a couple of times per week, depending on weather conditions. It's important to avoid overwatering to prevent rot, so allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In general, providing around 1 to 2 inches of water per week should be sufficient. During particularly hot or dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture. It's best to water the plants early in the morning to allow foliage time to dry and reduce the risk of fungal diseases.
LightDahlias like 'Clearview Sundance' thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight each day. Plant them in a location that receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day to ensure they produce vibrant blooms. Partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day, is acceptable but may result in fewer flowers.
TemperatureDahlias such as 'Clearview Sundance' prefer temperatures that range between 60°F and 70°F, which encourage optimal growth and flowering. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F but are not frost-tolerant and should not be exposed to temperatures below 32°F. To ensure a healthy dahlia, plant after the danger of frost has passed and temperatures consistently remain above 50°F.
PruningPruning Dahlias like 'Clearview Sundance' is done to promote bushier plants and more prolific blooms. Pinch back the new growth when the plant is about 1 foot tall to encourage branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. The best time for pruning is during active growth in the spring and summer months.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral pH around 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' would include equal parts peat moss, perlite, and garden soil or compost. Adding bone meal can boost root development and flowering.
RepottingDahlias, like 'Clearview Sundance', are typically grown from tubers and do not need frequent repotting. Instead, after their annual blooming cycle, tubers should be lifted, stored during winter, and replanted in the spring.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Clearview Sundance' do best in moderate humidity conditions. They don't require high humidity and should fare well in the average outdoor settings where humidity is naturally present.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' begins with the germination of tubers planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The sprouts emerge and develop into bushy plants, featuring strong stems and green foliage. As the plant grows, buds form and eventually bloom into the characteristic large, vibrant yellow flowers during the summer months. After flowering, the plant can be deadheaded to encourage more blooms, continuing until the first frost. As the growing season ends, the plant's foliage dies back and the tubers can be dug up, stored in a cool, dry place over winter, and replanted the following spring. Annual division of the tubers is recommended to maintain plant vigor and flower production.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early summer
Dahlia 'Clearview Sundance' can be most effectively propagated through the division of tubers, a process usually undertaken during the springtime when the plant is coming out of dormancy and before new growth starts. To propagate by division, carefully uncover the tuberous roots after the foliage has died back and the plant has been left in the ground for a few days to cure. Cut the clump apart with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or growth point from which new shoots will emerge. Each tuber should be about the size of a small potato or larger; smaller tubers might not have enough stored energy to thrive. After cutting, let the cut surface dry and callous over for a couple of days to prevent rot. Then, plant the tuber divisions about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil and space them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. This popular method allows gardeners to increase their stock of dahlias while maintaining the traits of the 'Clearview Sundance' variety.
