Dahlia Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset' (WL)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset' is a striking ornamental flowering plant known for its showy, vibrant blooms. The flowers exhibit a captivating blend of colors, reminiscent of a sunset, with shades of orange, yellow and red painting each petal, sometimes with softer hues blending together or bolder, flame-like streaks giving the appearance of a sunset glow. These hues evoke the warmth and beauty of a twilight sky. The petals themselves are arranged in a circular pattern, creating a full, almost spherical flower head that is characteristic of many dahlias. The arrangement of the petals can vary, ranging from tightly formal to a more relaxed, informal display that may reveal a central disk. The plant's foliage provides a lush green background to the vivid blossoms. The leaves are typically deep green and have a compound structure, with several leaflets arranged along a central stem. The texture of the leaves can be somewhat coarse, providing a striking contrast to the smooth, almost luminous quality of the petal surfaces. The stems are sturdy, supporting the weight of the heavy flower heads and allowing them to stand out prominently among the foliage. Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset' is a captivating addition to any garden space, its blooms drawing the eye and often serving as a focal point in floral displays and borders.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia, Georgina
Common names
Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset' (WL)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset', are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting dahlias, and handling them is unlikely to cause any skin irritation. However, as with any non-food plants, it's possible for sensitive individuals to experience mild stomach upset if parts of the plant are ingested. These symptoms would likely be minor and not cause for serious concern.
To pets
Dahlias are not known to be toxic to pets. Pets that ingest dahlias, such as Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset', may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, which can include symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms are typically self-limiting and do not require treatment beyond supportive care. However, it is always best to discourage pets from eating non-food plants, and if any concerning symptoms arise, a veterinarian should be consulted.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
4-5 feet [1.2-1.5 meters]
Spread
2-3 feet [0.6-0.9 meters]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Blossoms: Features stunning, large flowers in warm hues that can be a standout in any garden display.
- Long Blooming Period: Offers a prolonged period of bloom from mid-summer through the first frosts of fall, providing color for an extended season.
- Attracts Pollinators: Serves as an attractant for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of your garden plants.
- Versatile Landscaping Plant: Due to its size and form, it is suitable for use in borders, containers, and as focal points in garden beds.
- Various Culinary Uses: Edible petals that can be used to add color and flavor to salads and desserts (although culinary use is not its primary benefit).
- Cut Flower Potential: Produces strong stems and vibrant blooms that are ideal for creating striking cut flower arrangements.
- Ritual Significance: In some cultures, dahlias are used in ceremonies and celebrations due to their beauty and varied colors.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The petals of the Dahlia can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, offering hues ranging from pinks to deep burgundies depending on the mordant used.
- In art and photography: Dahlias are often used as subjects or inspiration for artists and photographers due to their vibrant colors and intricate petal patterns.
- Symbolic gifts: Given their variety in color and form, Dahlias can carry different meanings when given as gifts, such as commitment and a bond that lasts forever.
- In culinary decoration: The eye-catching petals can be used to garnish plates or as decorations on cakes and other desserts.
- As a natural pest repellent: Dahlia plants can sometimes repel certain types of nematodes when planted in a garden as part of a pest management strategy.
- In crafting: Dried Dahlia flowers can be used in various crafting projects, such as in making potpourri or floral arrangements.
- For educational purposes: Dahlias can be used in schools or workshops to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and horticulture.
- In perfumery: Though not common, some attempts have been made to capture the subtle scent profile of Dahlias in perfumes and scent-based products.
- As a symbol in cultural festivals: Dahlias are used as ornaments and symbols in various cultural festivals around the world to signify different themes, such as beauty and diversity.
- For color symbolism in events: Different colors of Dahlia blooms can be used to theme events and to convey specific messages or emotions, such as using red Dahlias for love and passion.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Dignity: Dahlias carry a sense of elegance and dignity, possibly due to their varied and beautiful blooms.
- Change and Variety: The dahlia comes in many colors and forms, symbolizing diversity and the ability to adapt to new situations.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a symbol of commitment or a lasting bond, dahlias can represent lasting relationships and the promise of an everlasting union.
- Inner Strength: The dahlia is often associated with standing out from the crowd and remaining graceful under pressure, symbolizing personal sovereignty and inner strength.
WaterFor Dahlias like 'Edwin's Sunset', a deep watering two to three times a week is generally sufficient, although this may vary depending on climate and soil conditions. It's important to water the plants at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent fungal diseases. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the soil to a depth of at least an inch; this might require about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant, depending on the size of the plant and the weather. During periods of high heat or drought, you may need to water more frequently. Always check the soil moisture before watering; Dahlias prefer a consistently moist soil but do not like to be waterlogged.
LightDahlias, such as 'Edwin's Sunset', thrive best in full sun conditions. Aim to plant them in a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Avoid areas that are shaded for long periods, as insufficient light can result in weak stems and fewer blooms.
TemperatureDahlias like 'Edwin's Sunset' perform best in temperate climates with daytime temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though they can survive in temperatures as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Dahlias are sensitive to frost, so it's important to wait until the danger of frost has passed before planting them outdoors and to dig them up for winter storage if you live in an area where temperatures drop below freezing.
PruningPruning Dahlias, including 'Edwin's Sunset', encourages a bushier plant with more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips after the plant has developed several sets of leaves, and continue to deadhead spent flowers throughout the blooming season to promote further blooming. The best time for pruning is when the plants are about 1 foot tall. Cut back the plants at the end of the growing season once the foliage has yellowed.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with a slight acidity to neutral pH, typically between 6.5 and 7.0. A good soil mix for 'Edwin's Sunset' would be a combination of garden soil, compost, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. Amending the soil with organic matter will aid in fertility and structure.
RepottingDahlias are not commonly grown as perpetual indoor potted plants; they are typically planted outside. However, 'Edwin's Sunset' tubers can be repotted annually in the spring when they are planted outside after the danger of frost has passed.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Edwin's Sunset' are not particularly humidity-sensitive and do well in average outdoor humidity levels. They thrive in the natural moisture of outdoor air without the need for specific humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, keep soil moist in pots.
Outdoor
Plant in sun, rich soil, space 18” apart.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset' begins with a tuber planted in well-drained soil after the danger of frost has passed, usually in the spring. The tuber sprouts, and a shoot emerges, developing into a stem with leaves. As the plant matures, it develops buds that blossom into the characteristic large, colorful flowers of the Dahlia, typically during summer. After flowering, as the season transitions to fall and temperatures drop, the above-ground foliage of the Dahlia dies back. The tuber enters a dormancy period during the winter, at which time it can be left in the ground in milder climates or dug up and stored in cooler climates. The following spring, the cycle can be repeated when the tuber is replanted, or new tubers that have developed can be separated and planted to propagate new plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Dahlia 'Edwin's Sunset', like other dahlias, is most commonly propagated through division, which is typically done during the dormant period from late winter to early spring. After the tubers have been stored for winter, gardeners can divide them before the new growth begins. Start by carefully digging up the stored dahlia tubers and brushing off any excess soil without damaging the tubers. Then, using a sharp knife or shears, cut the tuber clump into sections, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber where new growth will emerge. These sections can then be planted directly into the ground or into pots, ensuring that the eyes are facing upwards, and covered with soil. The soil should be well-draining and the divisions should be spaced about 18 inches (approximately 45.7 cm) apart to provide ample room for the plants to grow and thrive.
