Dahlia Dahlia 'Dark Desire' (Sin/dwb)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Dark Desire' is known for its striking and sumptuous blooms that showcase a dramatic play of colors. The flower heads are full and lush, consisting of layers upon layers of petals that create a stunningly dense and intricate display. These petals have a velvety texture, and they radiate outwards from a central point in a classic dahlia formation. The color of the petals is a deep, rich burgundy that can appear almost black in certain lights, giving the plant its 'Dark Desire' moniker. The bloom is a bold statement against the green foliage that accompanies it. This foliage serves as a contrasting backdrop to the flowers, with the leaves being a bright to medium green, broad, and slightly serrated at the edges. Overall, Dahlia 'Dark Desire' is a plant that captivates with its opulent blossoms, which add a touch of sophistication and mystery to any garden display. It's prized for its bold, abundant flowers that provide a magnificent focal point.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dark Desire Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Dark Desire'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered poisonous to humans. Typically, there are no serious symptoms associated with ingesting parts of the Dahlia 'Dark Desire' plant. However, as with any non-food plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Dark Desire,' are generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting parts of the plant should not cause serious harm. However, in some cases, a pet might experience mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if they consume large quantities. It's always a good idea to discourage pets from eating plants as a general precaution.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Flowers: Dahlias boast showy, vibrant blooms that add a splash of color to any garden.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias flower from midsummer until the first frost, providing extended visual interest.
- Variety of Uses: Suitable for flower beds, borders, and as cut flowers for arrangements.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, enhancing the biodiversity of the garden.
- Ease of Cultivation: Dahlias are relatively easy to grow and maintain, suitable for gardeners with varying levels of experience.
- Propagates Easily: Tubers can be divided to produce new plants, offering an economical way to expand your garden or share with others.
- Customizable Displays: Available in a wide range of sizes and colors, allowing for personalized garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia 'Dark Desire' petals can be used to create a natural dye for textiles, giving fabrics a unique and vibrant hue.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or piping in small-scale irrigation systems for gardening projects.
- Their eye-catching flowers can be used in art installations and flower mandalas for public events, festivals, or cultural ceremonies.
- Dahlia blooms can be pressed and included in personalized stationery or bookmarks, adding a touch of beauty to paper goods.
- Dried dahlia petals can be incorporated into potpourri blends to provide a colorful accent and a subtle fragrance to a room.
- Larger dahlia flowers can be used as natural bowls or cups for serving desserts at eco-friendly events or garden parties.
- The sturdy structure of dahlia tubers can be utilized in carving small crafts or stamps for art and decoration purposes.
- Dahlia flowers can act as an inspiration for color palettes in interior design, fashion, and visual arts, thanks to their diverse and rich colors.
- The geometric patterns found in the arrangement of dahlia petals can offer educational insights into the Fibonacci sequence and the concept of fractals in nature.
- They can be used in photography as a subject to teach techniques like macro, portrait, and still life due to their intricate details and stunning colors.
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: The 'Dark Desire' Dahlia, with its plush and intricate petals, often symbolizes a sophisticated and graceful quality.
- Diversity: Dahlias are known for their varied forms and colors, with 'Dark Desire' exemplifying uniqueness and celebrating differences.
- Change and Transformation: Because dahlias bloom for extended periods and can change shades as they age, they can represent change and personal growth.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias maintain their beauty for a considerable period when cut, often symbolizing a lasting commitment and a strong bond in relationships.
- Warning: The deep, almost black color of 'Dark Desire' Dahlia may suggest caution or a warning of an impending change or danger.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, with a frequency of about 2-3 times per week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture levels. When watering, aim to provide about 1 inch of water per week, which translates to roughly 0.6 gallons per square foot. Avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases. It is essential to reduce watering as the flowers die back in the fall, and the tubers are left to overwinter in the ground or are dug up for storage.
LightDahlias thrive in a spot that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They perform best when they are not shaded by trees or buildings, which can limit the amount of light the plants receive. Ensure that the planting spot is also protected from strong winds which might damage the tall stems and large flower heads of the Dahlia 'Dark Desire'.
TemperatureDahlias prefer temperatures that range from about 60°F to 75°F, which is ideal for vibrant growth and flowering. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F at night, but should not be exposed to frost, which can damage the plant; typically, they will not survive if the temperature drops below freezing (32°F). Plant tubers after the last frost in the spring, and be sure to lift them before the first frost in the fall if you are in a cold climate.
PruningDahlias benefit from regular deadheading to encourage continuous flowering. Remove spent flower heads and any damaged or diseased leaves to promote healthy growth and airflow around the plant. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. In areas with mild winters, dahlias may not require much pruning except for deadheading and thinning to prevent overcrowding.
SoilDahlias, including 'Dark Desire', thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.0. A good mix for these plants would be a combination of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts. Organic matter like compost can be added to increase fertility.
RepottingDahlias like 'Dark Desire' should be repotted yearly before new growth begins in spring; tubers should be divided every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDahlias, including 'Dark Desire', prefer moderate humidity levels and are tolerant of typical outdoor humidity ranges.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Dark Desire' Dahlia in bright, indirect light and monitor moisture.
Outdoor
Plant 'Dark Desire' Dahlia in full sun, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Dark Desire' begins with a tuber planted in the ground after the last frost when the soil has warmed. It first sprouts and develops into a small seedling, which then grows into a mature plant with a strong stem and leaves. Throughout the summer, it enters the flowering stage, producing blossoms that may be deadheaded to encourage more blooms. After flowering, as temperatures drop in autumn, the plant's aerial parts start to die back. The tuber can be left in the ground in milder climates to overwinter, or it may be dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place until the next spring. The plant can then be propagated by dividing the tuber and replanting the pieces to start the cycle anew or by using seeds formed in the spent flowers if they were allowed to mature.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method to propagate Dahlia 'Dark Desire' is through its tubers, which is ideally done in spring when there is no risk of frost and the soil has begun to warm. To propagate by tubers, one must carefully dig up the mature plant to expose its tuberous root system. Each tuber should have at least one eye, or bud, from which a new plant will grow. Tubers can then be cut apart with a sharp, sterile knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye. After cutting, the tubers should be allowed to dry for a few days to form a callus over the cut surface, which helps prevent rot. The individual tubers are then planted about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), with the eye facing upwards. As they grow, the new Dahlia 'Dark Desire' plants will require staking to support their large blooms.
