Dwarf Dahlia Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' (Sin/lil)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' is a charming flowering plant known for its vibrant and showy blossoms. These flowers are noteworthy for their intricate petal arrangements, which often resemble a pinwheel or a neatly arranged honeycomb due to their geometric precision. The petals can come in a variety of hues, including rich purples, pinks, reds, oranges, yellows, or even bicolor combinations that contribute to their exotic appearance. Some may display gradients and striking color contrasts that draw the eye and add to the plant's ornamental value. The blooms of Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' tend to be full and lush with layers of petals that can either be flat and smooth or slightly curled at the tips, adding to the flower's depth and texture. These colorful blossoms sit atop strong, slender stems that are sometimes hidden beneath the bouquet of foliage. The leaves are typically bright green, adding a luscious backdrop that contrasts nicely with the vibrant flowers. The foliage forms an attractive, bushy habit, with leaves that might have a slightly serrated edge, giving them a somewhat frilly appearance. In gardens, Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' is often prized for its vivid floral display, which tends to be long-lasting through the blooming season. The plant is a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts for their ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, adding to the liveliness of the garden space. Their unique and striking appearance makes them a popular choice for ornamental beds, borders, and container planting, bringing a touch of exotic flair to any setting they are placed in.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Exotic Dwarf Dahlia, Dwarf Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf', Dahlia pinnata 'Exotic Dwarf', Dahlia x hortensis 'Exotic Dwarf'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Exotic Dwarf' variety, are not considered toxic to humans. They are generally regarded as safe and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingesting any part of the dahlia plant. Thus, touching or accidentally ingesting parts of this plant would not typically result in symptoms of poisoning or adverse health consequences for humans.
To pets
Dahlias, including the 'Exotic Dwarf' variety, are considered to be non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. These plants are not known to cause any severe symptoms of poisoning if pets ingest them. However, as with any non-food plant material, ingestion of large quantities could potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, evidenced by vomiting or diarrhea. Generally, the dahlia plant is not harmful to pets and does not pose a significant risk of toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to maintain: Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' requires minimal pruning and is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Vibrant colors: These dahlias offer a range of bright, vibrant colors that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or floral arrangement.
- Attracts pollinators: The dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, promoting a healthy ecosystem.
- Suitable for containers: Due to their compact size, these dahlias are well-suited for container gardening, allowing for versatility in placement.
- Long blooming season: They boast a long blooming season, providing color and interest in a garden from mid-summer until the first frost.
- Cut flowers: These dahlias are excellent for cutting and creating ornamental displays in vases and bouquets, lasting well when cut.
- Diversity in landscape design: Their variety in form and color allows for diverse design options in landscaping and garden planning.
- Edible petals: The petals of certain dahlia varieties are edible and can be used to garnish salads and desserts.
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 fabric dye: The vibrant petals of Dahlia can be used to create a range of dyes for textiles, adding beautiful hues to fabrics.
- Photography subject: Their unique form and bright colors make Dahlia flowers a popular choice for photographers looking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Culinary decoration: Edible varieties of Dahlia petals can be used to adorn cakes and desserts for an elegant touch.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried Dahlia petals can serve as a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti at celebrations.
- Artistic inspiration: Dahlias can inspire artists, serving as a muse for paintings, illustrations, and other forms of artwork.
- Insectary plant in gardens: Dahlias can attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, aiding in the pollination of surrounding plants.
- Teaching tool: Different parts of the Dahlia plant can be used to teach students about plant biology and reproduction.
- Floral crafts: The sturdy stems and vivid colors of Dahlias make them ideal for creating dried floral arrangements and wreaths.
- Garden design: Dahlias can be used in creative garden designs, contributing to elaborate landscaping projects with their structured appearance.
- Theme events: Dahlias can be featured in horticultural shows or botanical events, celebrating their diverse forms and 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 and Dignity: Due to its sophisticated bloom structure and stature, dahlias epitomize poise and refinement.
- Change and Diversity: With its myriad of colors and forms, dahlias represent embracing diversity and adapting to change.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias often symbolize lasting commitment and the eternal bond between two people, making them popular in wedding bouquets.
- Creativity: The intricate petals and vibrant colors of dahlias are thought to inspire creative energy.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are robust flowers that continue to bloom despite challenges, symbolizing personal resilience.
WaterDahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' requires consistent moisture, so water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering them with about one to two gallons per week, depending on climate conditions. However, during hot, dry periods, they may need additional water, ensuring the soil is kept evenly moist but not soggy. Be careful not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day is ideal for Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf'. Place them in a spot where they receive morning sunlight and some partial shade in the afternoon during the hottest part of the day to prevent overheating and ensure vibrant blooms.
TemperatureDahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' prefers temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can tolerate a minimum night temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but will not survive frost. The ideal temperature range to encourage growth and flowering is between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning Dahlias helps to promote bushier growth and more blooms. For Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf', deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage continued blooming and cut back the stems by one-third in midsummer to rejuvenate the plant. The best time to prune is when the plants are not actively blooming, typically early in the growing season and again in midsummer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5. A mix of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand in equal parts creates an ideal growing medium. Regular addition of organic compost will enrich the soil further for the 'Exotic Dwarf' Dahlia.
RepottingDahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' should be repotted every year after the last frost in spring. This ensures fresh soil and room for tubers to grow, maintaining the health of the plant.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Avoid overly humid conditions which can promote fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in sun after frost; mulch and ensure good drainage.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of the Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' begins with seed germination, which occurs in a warm, moist growing medium. Once sprouted, seedlings grow into juvenile plants with characteristic foliage, which then mature into bushy plants when provided with ample sunlight and water. The mature Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf' produces buds that bloom into vibrant flowers, usually during the warmer months, attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, if the plant is deadheaded, it may produce additional blooms in a single growing season. As temperatures cool, the plant enters a dormant phase, with the tubers surviving underground through the winter. To continue the life cycle, tubers can be stored during colder months and replanted in the spring, or the plant can be propagated by seed or cuttings.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Exotic Dwarf', commonly known as just Dahlia, is commonly propagated by division, which is best done in spring when the plant is beginning to grow after the last frost. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuberous roots from the ground using a garden fork, ensuring not to damage them. Wash the soil off the tubers and use a sterile sharp knife to slice between the swollen tubers, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a growth point. Let the cut surface dry for a few days to form a callous, which prevents rot, and then plant the divisions about 6 inches (15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for growth. Water the newly planted divisions gently, and they should grow into healthy plants. Keep in mind that newly divided Dahlias may take a season to produce flowers as robustly as established plants.
