Dahlia Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' (C)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' is a striking plant with a bold display of floral beauty. This variety of dahlia is known for its distinctive flowers, which offer a dramatic contrast between deep, rich colors and brighter hues. The blooms are characterized by their layered petals that form a lush, rounded shape akin to a waterlily or a decorative ball. The color palette of the blossoms can vary, but they often feature dark, velvety tones that may appear nearly black in certain lights, combined with vibrant shades that can include purples, reds, or even fiery orange accents, depending on the specific plant. The flowers are set against a backdrop of green foliage which serves to further highlight their striking colors and form. The leaves are typically bright green, forming a lush canopy from which the exquisite blooms emerge on sturdy stems. Overall, Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' is celebrated for its showy, opulent flowers that can add a touch of mystery and sophistication to any garden display.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dark Stranger Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Dark Stranger'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, such as the 'Dark Stranger' variety, are not known to be toxic to humans. These plants do not typically pose any threat if touched or ingested. Therefore, no particular symptoms of poisoning are associated with dahlias, and ingesting parts of the dahlia plant is unlikely to have serious consequences for humans.
To pets
Dahlias, including the 'Dark Stranger' variety, are considered non-toxic to pets. They are not known to cause poisoning if pets were to ingest parts of the plant. As such, there typically are no symptoms associated with the ingestion of dahlias by pets, and consuming parts of the plant should not lead to any serious health issues in animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Maroon
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Dahlias, including the 'Dark Stranger' variety, produce eye-catching blooms that can greatly enhance garden aesthetics.
- Variety of Colors: This particular Dahlia offers unique and deep coloration, contributing to a diverse and vibrant garden palette.
- Pollinator Friendly: Dahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting the local ecosystem.
- Cut Flower Use: The blossoms of Dahlias like 'Dark Stranger' are excellent for cutting and creating indoor floral arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: Dahlias bloom from midsummer to first frost, providing long-lasting color and interest in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are known to be relatively easy to grow with minimal care requirements, making them suitable for gardeners of all levels.
- Reblooming Flowers: With appropriate deadheading, many Dahlias will continue to bloom and provide color throughout the season.
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 Stranger' flowers can be used as a natural dye for textiles, providing a range of colors from pinks to deep purples depending on the mordant used.
- The blooms of this Dahlia can be pressed and included in the craft of making botanical papers or unique handmade cards.
- Edible parts of Dahlia 'Dark Stranger', such as the tubers, can be incorporated into culinary dishes and are known in some cultures as a source of food.
- With their striking appearance, the petals of this Dahlia are ideal for garnishing desserts and salads for an elegant presentation.
- The plant's sturdy stems make them suitable for constructing small, decorative structures like fairy gardens or miniature trellises.
- Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' flowers can be used in macro photography projects due to their intricate details and rich colors.
- The plant can serve as a natural pest repellent in gardens, as some pests avoid Dahlias due to their strong scent.
- Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' is excellent for use in educational settings to teach botany and horticulture, highlighting hybridization and flower structure.
- The robust tubers of the plant can be carved into stamps for craft projects, creating unique floral patterns on fabric or paper.
- Deadheading the spent Dahlia flowers can become a mindful, meditative practice for gardeners, promoting mental health and well-being.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not traditionally used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Change and Transformation: Dahlias are often associated with change due to their diverse colors and patterns, and 'Dark Stranger' with its distinctive hue can represent the embracing of a new beginning or phase in life.
- Elegance and Dignity: The intricate petals and lush appearance of the Dahlia, including the 'Dark Stranger' variety, symbolize grace under pressure and a poised demeanor.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as gifts, Dahlias like 'Dark Stranger' can signify a lasting commitment or a strong bond between two people because of their long blooming season.
- Warning or Betrayal: 'Dark Stranger', with its somewhat mysterious name and deep coloration, could be seen to symbolize a warning of betrayal or an indication of an unforeseen risk.
- Inner Strength: The robust nature of Dahlias, including the 'Dark Stranger', suggests an inner strength and ability to thrive despite challenging circumstances.
WaterDalhias require consistent moisture, so it's best to water the Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' deeply a couple of times a week, providing about 1-2 gallons per plant during each watering session. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not soggy. During the peak of summer, you might need to water more frequently to maintain the ideal moisture level. Less water is needed if rainfall is sufficient. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight, so place your Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' in a spot where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The plant will perform best in a location that provides morning sunlight and some afternoon shade in hot climates to protect it from the intense heat of the day.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate conditions and can generally tolerate temperatures from 60°F to 90°F. Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' should not be exposed to freezing temperatures; the tubers can be damaged or killed if temperatures drop below 32°F. The ideal growing temperature for dahlias ranges between 70°F and 75°F during the day.
PruningPruning dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Dark Stranger', helps to promote bushier growth and more blooms. Pinching out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall will encourage branching. Cut back spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. The best time for major pruning is during the winter or early spring when the plant is dormant, trimming back any dead or diseased stems.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Dark Stranger' prefers well-draining soil with rich organic matter. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or coco coir, and one part perlite or sand is ideal. Maintain a slightly acidic to neutral pH, between 6.5 and 7.0, for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, including Dahlia 'Dark Stranger', should be repotted annually. Ideally, this is done in the spring when new growth begins, after the last frost date, to refresh the soil and provide adequate space for the tubers to develop.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Dark Stranger' thrives best in moderate humidity conditions. It is important to maintain humidity levels between 40-60% for optimal plant health and bloom production.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light with some direct sun and keep soil moist for indoor Dahlia care.
Outdoor
Ensure full sun, rich soil, and regular watering for outdoor Dahlia cultivation.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' begins with a dormant tuber planted in the spring after the last frost, as these plants are sensitive to cold weather. The tuber sprouts and develops into a young plant, with the first leaves emerging and photosynthesizing to provide energy for growth. As the plant matures, it forms a strong stem and foliage, preparing for the blooming stage. The Dahlia 'Dark Stranger' generally blooms from midsummer until the first frost, showcasing its distinctive dark petals that attract pollinators. After the blooming season, the plant's aboveground growth begins to wither as it enters a period of dormancy; during this time gardeners often lift and store the tubers to protect them from freezing temperatures. The stored tubers can then be replanted the following spring, continuing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Dark Stranger', commonly known as simply Dahlia, is usually propagated through division, a process best performed in the spring just before new growth begins. To propagate Dahlias by division, one should carefully lift the tuberous roots from the ground after the foliage has been killed by frost in the fall or before new growth starts in the spring. Gently wash the soil from the tubers and cut the clump apart with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, or bud, from which new growth will sprout. These divisions can then be planted directly into the garden or potted up to get a head start before transferring outdoors. It is important to plant the tubers at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) and water them well to encourage establishment.
