Dahlia Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra' (PBR) (Gallery Series) (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra' is a striking flowering plant that is part of the Gallery Series, known for their beautiful and varied blooms. The plant produces flowers that have an alluring appeal, distinguished by their rich, velvety red petals that can captivate any onlooker's attention. The petals are organized in a way that gives the flowers a neat and orderly look, showcasing a full, almost spherical bloom that is reminiscent of traditional pompom dahlias. Each petal is elegantly curved, contributing to the flower's lush, full-bodied appearance. The deep red of the petals creates a gradient of color, with some parts appearing more dark and intense, while others suggest a softer red hue. These flowers often possess a lustrous sheen, making them seem as if they are glowing from within, especially under sunlight. Amidst the floral display, the dark green foliage acts as the perfect backdrop, enhancing the dramatic contrast with the red flowers. The leaves of the Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra' are typically pinnate, with leaflets arranged on either side of a central stem, providing a feathery texture that complements the bold flowers. This plant is a favorite for ornamental use due to its eye-catching blooms and is often a choice for cut flower arrangements because of the flowers' longevity and structural integrity. Overall, the Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra' presents a striking visual spectacle, with its vibrant colors and lush, opulent flowers, which can bring a touch of sophistication and drama to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Gallery Cobra Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Gallery Cobra', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They are not known to cause serious illness or death if ingested. However, ingesting any part of the plant may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, due to the presence of insoluble fibers or other plant components that can be irritating to the digestive system. It is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential for pesticides or other chemicals on the plants, which may pose a health risk.
To pets
Dahlias, like the 'Gallery Cobra', are typically non-toxic to common household pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting parts of the plant may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, evidenced by symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms usually resolve on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, as with humans, it is best to prevent pets from chewing on ornamental plants to avoid the risk of consuming harmful chemicals or experiencing gastrointestinal discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
1 foot 6 inches [45 centimeters]
Spread
1 foot [30 centimeters]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Compact Size: Suitable for small gardens and container planting.
- Vibrant Flowers: Produces striking red-purple blooms that add color and aesthetic appeal.
- Extended Blooming: Offers a long flowering season from summer to autumn.
- Attracts Pollinators: Flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal care once established.
- RHS Award of Garden Merit: Recognized as a plant of outstanding excellence.
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 produce a range of vibrant colors for fabric dyeing, depending on the mordant used.
- In salads and cuisine: Dahlia petals are edible and can add a splash of color and unique taste to salads and desserts.
- As a floating decoration: Dahlia flowers can be floated in bowls of water as a decorative centerpiece for events or as an artistic household display.
- In photography: The striking appearance of the dahlia makes it an excellent subject for floral and macro photography enthusiasts.
- For petal confetti: Dried dahlia petals can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional confetti at celebrations.
- As a teaching tool: Dahlias can be used in educational settings to illustrate plant biology, hybridization, and genetics due to the vast variety found within the species.
- In crafting: The dahlia's structure and color make it a popular choice for creating realistic-looking flowers out of paper or fabric.
- In perfumery: While not commonly known for their fragrance, some dahlia varieties can be used to contribute to the scent profile of perfumes.
- For color therapy: The vibrant colors of dahlias can be used in color therapy practices, which believe in the healing power of colors.
- As a symbol: Dahlias can represent various meanings, such as change and dignity, and are sometimes used in events or artistic endeavors to convey these themes.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not commonly referenced in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Often associated with the refined beauty and stability that this flower represents due to its symmetrical petals and impressive form.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are sometimes given as a symbol of a long-lasting commitment or a bond that stands the test of time.
- Change and Diversity: With its wide variety of colors and forms, the dahlia can symbolize change, diversity, and embracing the unique.
- Warning and Betrayal: In the Victorian language of flowers, dahlias sometimes carried a cautionary meaning, perhaps because of their stunning yet intense appearance.
- Creative Spirit: They are often associated with creativity and artistic inspiration, reflecting the flower's variety and expressive blooms.
WaterDahlias, including the Gallery Cobra, prefer to be watered deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth, typically every two to three days during the active growing season, depending on climate conditions. A general rule is to provide about 1 to 2 gallons of water per plant each time you water. Ensure the soil is moist but not soggy. During periods of hot and dry weather, you may need to water more frequently. It's important to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant.
LightDahlias like 'Gallery Cobra' thrive in full sun conditions, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom well. The best spot for planting them is in a location where they are exposed to full sun during the morning and shielded from the intense late afternoon sun if possible.
Temperature'Gallery Cobra' Dahlias do best in temperatures that range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive down to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night and should not be exposed to temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit for prolonged periods. For optimal growth and flowering, maintain them within this temperature range.
PruningPruning 'Gallery Cobra' Dahlias is important to promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. Pinch back the main stem when the plant is about 16 inches tall to promote bushiness. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer a well-draining soil with a pH of around 6.5. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand works well. Test soil pH and adjust with lime if too acidic or sulfur if too alkaline for optimal growing conditions for Gallery Dahlias.
RepottingGallery Dahlias, including 'Gallery Cobra', should be repotted annually in the spring as they begin to grow from tubers. This refreshes the soil and provides space for root development. Repotting also helps prevent disease and nutrient depletion for these beauties.
Humidity & MistingGallery Dahlias thrive best in moderate humidity levels, around 40-60%. They can tolerate some variation but avoid excessively dry air which can stress the plants and lead to issues like spider mites.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Gallery Dahlia in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Provide full sun, shelter from strong winds outdoors for Dahlias.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Gallery Cobra Dahlia begins its life as a tuber planted in spring after the last frost, typically buried 4-6 inches deep in fertile, well-draining soil. As temperatures warm, the tuber sprouts and a shoot emerges from the soil, developing into a bushy plant with deep green foliage. By mid-summer to early fall, the plant produces its first buds, which then blossom into large, vibrant flowers characterized by their deep red petals with darker markings. After blooming, if deadheaded regularly, the dahlia can continue producing flowers until the first frost. As cold weather approaches, the foliage will yellow and die back; this signals the time to dig up and store the tubers in a cool, dry place to overwinter. The cycle begins anew when these tubers are replanted the following spring, completing the annual life cycle of the Gallery Cobra Dahlia.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Dahlia 'Gallery Cobra' is best propagated by division in early spring as new growth begins. To do so, carefully dig up the tubers after winter dormancy once the risk of frost has passed, usually when the soil has warmed to about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius). Gently brush off excess soil and divide the clump into sections, ensuring each section has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can emerge. Replant the tuber sections at a depth of about 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) and space them about 18 to 24 inches apart (45.72 to 60.96 centimeters). Water the newly planted tubers well to establish them. This method allows for a rapid increase in the number of plants and maintains the genetic consistency of 'Gallery Cobra'.
