Dahlia Dahlia 'Emory Paul' (D)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Emory Paul' is a captivating plant known for its impressive and extravagant blooms. The flowers are characterized by their remarkable size and vibrant color spectrum, showcasing hues that can range from pink to rich purples. Each flower is composed of a multitude of individual petals that are arranged in a layered, almost frilly fashion which gives them a lush, full look. The petals are densely packed and can have a slightly curled or twisted appearance, contributing to the flower's overall voluminous and dynamic texture. The center of the bloom often appears more intense in color, gradually softening as it moves outward to the petal tips. These showy blooms make 'Emory Paul' a popular choice for garden displays and floral arrangements. The plant's foliage provides a lush green backdrop for the extravagant flowers, featuring leaves that are typically medium to dark green with a slightly glossy finish and an ovate shape with toothed edges, creating a nice visual contrast to the softness of the blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dinner Plate Dahlia, Giant Dahlia, Decorative Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Emory Paul'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety 'Emory Paul', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting parts of this plant typically does not result in poisoning or adverse health effects. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating plants that are not known to be edible.
To pets
Dahlias, as in the 'Emory Paul' variety, are also considered non-toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. Ingesting parts of the dahlia plant is not expected to cause poisoning or serious health issues in pets. However, individual animals can sometimes have mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume plant material that they are not used to, so it is still best to prevent pets from ingesting dahlia or any non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
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- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which can benefit the overall health of your garden and local ecosystems.
- Ornamental Value: 'Emory Paul' has particularly large, vibrant, and colorful blooms that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden or floral arrangement.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias, including 'Emory Paul,' have a long flowering season, often from midsummer until the first frosts, providing extended periods of visual interest.
- Cut Flowers: The large and showy flowers of 'Emory Paul' are excellent for cutting and can last for several days in a vase, making them ideal for indoor decoration.
- Versatility: Dahlias can be grown in borders, flower beds, pots, and containers, offering flexibility for gardeners with limited space or specific design needs.
- Ease of Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated by dividing tubers, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Competitions and Shows: 'Emory Paul,' like other dahlias, is often used in horticultural shows and competitions due to its impressive flower size and form.
- Variety of Uses: Due to their striking appearance, dahlias are not only used in gardens but also in weddings, events, and other celebrations as decorative elements.
- Increases Biodiversity: Planting dahlias contributes to the biodiversity of a garden by supporting different species and providing varied habitats and resources for wildlife.
- Cultural Significance: Dahlias hold cultural importance in many places and are celebrated in festivals and events, which can add a cultural dimension to planting them.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: The large and vibrant blooms of Dahlia 'Emory Paul' make it an excellent subject for photographers looking to capture the intricacy and beauty of nature.
- Insect Habitat: These dahlias can offer a place of refuge and nourishment for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Fashion Inspiration: The bright colors and patterns of the Dahlia 'Emory Paul' can inspire designers in creating floral prints and textures for clothing and accessories.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not a common use, the petals of Dahlia 'Emory Paul' can be used as a dramatic edible garnish for upscale culinary presentations.
- Artists' Muse: The unique form and color of the Dahlia 'Emory Paul' can inspire artists in various mediums, from painting to sculpture.
- Learning Tool: Botany students can study 'Emory Paul' to learn about the genetics of flower color and shape, as dahlias exhibit a wide range of these traits.
- Color Dye: The pigments from Dahlia 'Emory Paul' flowers can be extracted to create natural dyes for fabrics or art projects.
- Theme Gardens: These dahlias can be used to create themed garden displays, such as a "giant blooms" garden or a monochromatic pink garden.
- Wedding Decor: With its impressive size and stunning color, 'Emory Paul' can be utilized in wedding bouquets and centerpieces for a dramatic effect.
- Floral Crafts: The blooms can be used in crafting, such as the making of floral wreaths, hair accessories, or as part of a natural potpourri.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Emory Paul' with its striking and elaborate petals symbolizes the poise and grace that one carries through complex situations.
- Commitment and Bond: Often given as a gift to express a lasting commitment or a strong bond between two people.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: With its wide range of colors and forms, Dahlias represent diversity and remind us to celebrate our unique differences.
- Change and Transition: As Dahlias bloom in late summer through fall, they are often associated with the changing seasons and can signify life changes and transitions.
- Warning or Betrayal: In some traditions, Dahlias can also symbolize a warning or the presence of betrayal, perhaps due to their complex structure hinting at hidden meanings.
WaterDahlia 'Emory Paul', commonly known as Dinner Plate Dahlia, requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. It should be watered deeply, reaching the roots without over-saturating the soil, about two to three times a week depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, water may be needed more frequently; aim for at least 1 inch of water per week. If using a watering can or hose, apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding the foliage, to minimize the risk of fungal diseases. Adjust the watering schedule during rainy periods to prevent waterlogging. Over-watering or allowing the dahlias to sit in water can cause tuber rot.
LightDinner Plate Dahlias thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The best spot for these plants is in a location where they'll receive morning sunlight and some protection from intense afternoon rays, which can be harsh during the peak summer months. Ensure that they are planted in a well-drained area with ample light to promote robust growth and abundant flowering.
TemperatureDinner Plate Dahlias favor moderate temperature conditions and are hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11. They can survive minimum temperatures of around 20°F, though it's best to protect them from frosts by mulching or bringing the tubers indoors. The ideal growing temperatures for dahlias are between 60°F and 70°F. Temperature extremes beyond these ranges can affect their growth and blooming.
PruningPrune Dinner Plate Dahlias to promote bushier growth, enhance air circulation, and encourage larger blooms. Remove any weak or damaged stems, deadhead flowers regularly to stimulate more blooms, and cut back the plants at the end of the season once foliage has died back. The best time for pruning is early in the growing season when plants are about a foot tall; at this point, pinch out the growing tip to encourage branching. Repeat this process throughout the season as needed for shaping and deadheading.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for the Dahlia 'Emory Paul' should be fertile, well-draining, and light. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts is ideal. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Emory Paul' variety, do not grow in standard pots as perennial plants but are often lifted and stored during winter. They should be planted annually in the spring after the danger of frost has passed, so annual repotting is typical for these tubers.
Humidity & MistingDahlias such as the 'Emory Paul' prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive in outdoor environments where the humidity is natural and not too high; consistent with average outdoor conditions in their growing season.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant after last frost in well-draining soil with full sun.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Emory Paul' begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in well-draining soil and warm temperatures after the last frost. The tuber sprouts and develops into a small seedling with a few pairs of leaves, utilizing stored nutrients. As it matures, the plant grows larger, producing a lush green foliage and stems strong enough to hold the flowers. It reaches the flowering stage in mid-summer to early autumn, where it produces large, showy flowers that can be a variety of colors, but 'Emory Paul' is particularly known for its stunning pinkish-purple blossoms. Once the blooming period ends, the plant enters a period of dormancy after the first frost, where the foliage dies back and the tuber rests underground during the winter. In the next growing season, the tuber can be left in the ground or dug up, divided, and stored to restart the cycle with new growth in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Emory Paul' is by division. Dahlia tubers, which are the underground storage structures of the plant, can be divided in spring just before the new growth begins. Gardeners often wait until the eye, or growth point, on each tuber is clearly visible to ensure each division will produce a new plant. To propagate by division, carefully dig up the clump of tubers from the ground after the foliage has died back, usually following the first frost. Gently rinse off the soil and cut the tuber clump into sections, making sure each piece has at least one eye. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and callous over for a day before planting them back in the ground or potting them up. Division allows for rapid increase of your Dahlia stock and ensures that the new plants will be true to type, showing the same characteristics as the parent 'Emory Paul'.
