Dahlia Dahlia 'Durango' (PBR) (D)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Durango' is a striking ornamental plant known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. The blooms are the most eye-catching feature, typically showcasing bold hues that can range from fiery reds, warm yellows, to sunset oranges. Each flower is composed of a multitude of layered petals that create a full, almost pompom-like effect which is very alluring in garden displays and as cut flowers. The petals have a slightly curved or pointed shape that gives the flowers a sense of depth and texture. The flower heads sit atop sturdy stems, which are surrounded by lush green foliage. The leaves are usually broad and have a somewhat serrated edge, adding an attractive backdrop to the vivid blooms. As a garden plant, Dahlia 'Durango' provides a long-lasting display of color from mid-summer until the first frosts of fall, making it a favorite for gardeners looking to add a prolonged burst of color to their landscape. The bright flowers also attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, adding life and movement to its surroundings. It has an elegant yet vivid appearance that stands out in borders, flower beds, and as a specimen in floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Durango Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Durango' (PBR) (D).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally not toxic to humans. These plants, including the Dahlia 'Durango', do not contain substances that are known to be poisonous to people. Ingesting them is unlikely to cause anything more than a stomachache, if that. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants as they are not intended for consumption, and individual allergic reactions could occur.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Durango', are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. They are not known to contain any substances that are harmful to pets. While eating dahlias can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, significant toxicity is not expected. However, it is generally discouraged to allow pets to eat ornamental plants as they are not intended for consumption and different pets may have individual sensitivities.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
18 inches (45 cm)
Spread
18 inches (45 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to grow – The Dahlia 'Durango' is known for being an easy-to-grow plant, which makes it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Attracts pollinators – It attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, which helps to pollinate other plants in the garden.
- Vivid Colors – This variety of dahlia offers bright and vibrant flowers, which add a splash of color to any garden space.
- Extended Blooming – Dahlias have a long flowering season, from midsummer until the first frosts, providing color for many months.
- Versatile – They are suitable for planting in borders, containers and can also be used as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Drought tolerant – Once established, dahlias can be fairly drought tolerant, requiring less water compared to other plants.
- Continuous blooms – Regular deadheading encourages further blooming, leading to a continuous display of flowers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye production: The petals of Dahlias can be used to produce a range of dyes for fabrics, presenting a natural alternative to synthetic dyes.
- Edible tubers: Dahlia tubers are similar to potatoes and can be eaten when they are properly prepared; the taste is often described as a cross between a potato and a radish.
- Garden pest control: Planting Dahlias can help to attract predatory insects that feed on common garden pests, thereby providing a measure of natural pest control.
- Biomass accumulation: Dahlia tubers are effective at absorbing and storing nutrients, making them good at rehabilitating poor soils when left to decompose naturally.
- Floral arrangements: Although not unusual, Dahlias are traditionally used in floral arrangements as they provide vibrant colors and a variety of shapes.
- Photography subject: Dahlias are very photogenic due to their vibrant colors and intricate petals, making them popular subjects in photography.
- Wedding decorations: Dahlias are often used in wedding bouquets and centerpieces for their beauty and symbolism of commitment and bond that lasts forever.
- Bee garden addition: These flowers can contribute to the health of bee populations as they offer an abundant source of pollen and nectar for bees.
- Craft projects: The symmetrical form and variety of colors of Dahlia flowers make them ideal for use in craft projects such as making pressed flower art or potpourri.
- Teaching tool: Dahlias can be used in educational settings to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and the importance of pollinators in the ecosystem.
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, with its full, intricate blooms and variety of colors, often represents elegance and dignity, reflecting the flower’s sophisticated appearance.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias can symbolize a lasting commitment and bond between two people, often given as gifts to represent a long-term relationship.
- Change and Diversity: With its wide range of colors and forms, the Dahlia can signify diversity, change, and variety in life.
- Creative Expression: The Dahlia encourages individuals to embrace their unique traits and may represent personal growth through creativity.
- Warning and Betrayal: In some traditions, Dahlias can serve as a symbol for a warning or to indicate the presence of betrayal or dishonesty.
WaterThe Dahlia 'Durango', commonly known as Garden Dahlia, should be watered deeply to ensure moisture reaches the roots, about once or twice a week depending on the weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, Garden Dahlias may need more frequent watering. Aim to provide about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. Always check the top inch of soil before watering; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Over-watering or allowing the plants to sit in water can cause tuber rot, so well-drained soil is essential.
LightGarden Dahlias flourish in a location with full sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. They prefer bright, direct light to produce vibrant blooms. However, in extremely hot climates, they benefit from protection from the intense afternoon sun. Ideally, plant Garden Dahlias in a spot that receives morning sunlight and partial shade during the hottest part of the day.
TemperatureGarden Dahlias prefer a moderate temperature range and thrive in conditions between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit but will not tolerate frost, which can kill the plant. The maximum temperature for Garden Dahlia growth is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, above which the plants may experience stress.
PruningPruning Garden Dahlias encourages more blooms and a bushier growth habit. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to stimulate new blooms. Around midsummer, pinch or cut back the tips of the main stems to promote branching. Prune the Garden Dahlia plants after the first frost in fall, cutting back the stems to about 4-6 inches above the ground before digging up the tubers for winter storage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with a rich composition of organic matter. A good soil mix for Dahlia 'Durango' includes equal parts of peat moss, coarse sand, and loamy soil. Amend with compost before planting to enhance fertility. They thrive best in soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5, leaning towards slightly acidic to neutral.
RepottingDahlias, including the Dahlia 'Durango', generally do not need to be repotted often, as they are typically grown as annuals. However, if you're growing them as perennials from tubers, repot every spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like Dahlia 'Durango' are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels. They grow best with moderate humidity but do not require high humidity specific conditions. Ensuring good air circulation is vital to reduce the risk of diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and consistent moisture indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil with compost, and provide regular water.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Durango' starts with the germination of its tuber, which occurs in early spring when soil temperatures rise. After sprouting, the plant enters a vigorous vegetative growth phase where foliage and stems rapidly expand, provided that it receives adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. As the plant matures, it begins the flowering stage in early summer, producing vibrant, colorful blooms that are often used for ornamental purposes. These flowers usually continue to blossom until the first frost of autumn. As temperatures drop in late fall, the Dahlia 'Durango' enters a dormant stage, where the above-ground growth dies back and the plant relies on its underground tuber to survive the winter. In the subsequent spring, the cycle begins anew as the tuber regenerates fresh foliage, completing its annual life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Durango' variety, typically propagated through division, is best done in the spring when the risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.56 degrees Celsius). After the last frost, gardeners should carefully lift the tubers from the ground, gently brush off excess soil, and divide them with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a growth point. The divided tubers can then be planted directly into well-drained soil, with the eye facing upward and covered by a couple of inches of soil. As the plants grow, staking may be necessary to support the vibrant, heavy blooms typical of this cultivar through the summer and into the fall.
