Yellow Spider Dahlia Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' (C)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' is a distinctive and eye-catching flower known for its unique blossom appearance. The petals have a spider-like form, with long, narrow, and tubular shapes that are gracefully curved outward. They are characteristically vibrant yellow, which gives the flower a radiant and sunny aspect, making it stand out in any garden setting. Each bloom displays a whirl of these slender petals, which can create a visual effect reminiscent of a spinning wheel. The petals emerge from a central point, and their elongated formation can make the flower head look somewhat spiky or disheveled, yet with a captivating elegance. The electric yellow hue tends to be bright and pure, attracting various pollinators with its vivid color. The center of the flower, from which the spindly petals emanate, is typically a contrasting shade, with a darker eye that accents the yellow and adds depth to the overall look of the flower. The foliage of Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' is green with leaves that have a defined shape, providing a lush background for the striking blooms. The plant produces multiple flowers in a branching pattern which can give it a full and abundant presence, often blooming from midsummer until the first frosts of late autumn. Overall, Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' is best known for its distinctive spider-like yellow petals and vibrant, showy blooms, which make it a favorite for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama and flair to their floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Yellow Spider Dahlia, Gryson's Yellow Spider Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. There is little to no risk of poisoning from ingesting dahlias. However, eating any non-food plants is generally not advisable, and some individuals may experience a mild stomach upset if dahlia parts are ingested.
To pets
Dahlias are not considered toxic to pets either. They are generally safe around animals, and ingestion typically does not result in poisoning. As with humans, consuming plant material that is not part of a pet's normal diet may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, but serious toxicity is not anticipated.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
3-4 feet (91-122 cm)
Spread
2-3 feet (61-91 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Dahlia 'Yellow Spider' features unique, spider-like petals that add a visually striking element to gardens and landscapes.
- Colorful Blooms: With bright yellow flowers, this plant provides a cheerful pop of color to garden beds and floral arrangements.
- Pollinator Friendly: Dahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, supporting local ecosystems and biodiversity.
- Long Blooming Period: Dahlias typically have a lengthy flowering season from midsummer through fall, providing sustained garden interest.
- Cut Flower Use: The distinctive blooms make excellent cut flowers for vases and bouquets due to their longevity and structure.
- Garden Design Versatility: Dahlias are suitable for a range of garden styles, from formal borders to cottage gardens.
- Seasonal Interest: As a late summer to fall blooming plant, dahlias offer visual interest during a time when many other plants are winding down.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated from tubers, allowing gardeners to multiply their plants and share with others.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias, including the Gryson's Yellow Spider variety, can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics and textiles, producing a range of hues depending on the mordant used.
- The tubers of dahlias can be used in cooking as a carbohydrate source, similar to potatoes, although they must be treated to remove any naturally occurring toxins.
- Dahlia flowers are edible and can be used to add a burst of color to salads or as an elegant garnish on desserts and dishes.
- Dahlia stems can be fashioned into biodegradable straws or stirrers, providing an eco-friendly alternative to plastic straws.
- They can be used in art projects, with petals and blooms utilized for creating natural collages, mandalas, or pressed flower displays.
- Dahlia blooms can serve as a natural indicator of pH balance when used in science experiments, changing color based on the acidity or alkalinity of a solution.
- These flowers can be incorporated into natural cosmetics, such as bath bombs or soaps, for their color and mild fragrance.
- Dahlias can be used in photography projects as a subject to study the effects of light and color, given their vibrant colors and intricate petal structures.
- The hollow stems of dahlias may be used in miniature construction projects or as part of biomimicry design studies.
- Petals of dahlia flowers can be scattered as a biodegradable confetti or used in potpourri for their shape and subtle fragrance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not typically referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The intricacies of the 'Yellow Spider' Dahlia's form and its graceful presence stand for poise and sophistication.
- Creativity and Inner Strength: With its unique spider-like petals, the Dahlia symbolizes an embrace of originality and the power within to create and innovate.
- Change and Transformation: Dahlias bloom from midsummer through autumn, representing the transient nature of life and the ability to thrive amidst changes.
- Wealth and Prosperity: The vibrant yellow color of the Dahlia is frequently associated with wealth, good fortune, and success.
- Commitment and Bond: Due to the Dahlia's intricate layers and strength in petals, it is often used to signify a lasting commitment or an everlasting bond between individuals.
WaterDahlias need regular watering, and the 'Gryson's Yellow Spider', being a variety of dahlia, prefers moist but well-drained soil. Watering should take place once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically 2-3 times per week, depending on weather conditions. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. During the active growing season, in the absence of rainfall, dahlias may need up to 1-2 gallons of water per week. Cut back on watering as the plant begins to die back in the fall.
LightDahlias, including the 'Gryson's Yellow Spider', thrive in full sun. They require at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure vigorous growth and prolific blooming. Place them in a spot where they are exposed to the morning sunlight, as this is the best time for the flowers to receive light while avoiding the intense heat of the midday sun.
TemperatureDahlias such as the 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' grow best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive a minimum temperature of 50°F, but the tubers are sensitive to frost. The maximum temperature for dahlias is around 90°F, beyond which they may show signs of heat stress. It's important to plant dahlias after all danger of frost has passed in the spring.
PruningFor dahlias such as 'Gryson's Yellow Spider', pruning is essential to encourage bushier growth, larger flowers, and good air circulation. Pinch out the growing tip when the plant is about a foot tall to promote branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Cutting back stems after the first killing frost in fall is also necessary to prepare the dahlias for winter storage if you live in a cooler climate.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A mix of two parts loam, one part peat moss, and one part sand is ideal for 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' to ensure proper drainage and aeration. A regular application of balanced, slow-release fertilizer will help support robust growth.
RepottingDahlias, like 'Gryson's Yellow Spider', don't require frequent repotting as they are typically grown as annuals. They should be planted each spring after the threat of frost has passed and dug up after the first fall frost for storage during the winter if desired.
Humidity & MistingDahlias such as 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' are not particularly humidity-sensitive but thrive best in moderate conditions. They prefer outdoor environments where the natural daily humidity fluctuates without the need for specific adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure a pot with drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun after frost and water generously.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider', commonly known as Gryson's Yellow Spider Dahlia, begins its life as a tuber planted after the last frost when soil temperatures reach about 60°F (15°C). It quickly sprouts into a seedling with a few sets of leaves and then transitions into the vegetative stage, where it develops a robust stem and foliage network. During the flowering stage, the plant produces distinctive, spider-shaped yellow blossoms that attract pollinators and can last until the first frost. After blooming, the Gryson's Yellow Spider Dahlia enters a period of senescence as temperatures drop; the leaves yellow and the plant begins to die back. In areas with cold winters, gardeners typically dig up the tubers to store over the winter before replanting in the following spring. If left in the ground in milder climates, the tubers often naturally go dormant and may sprout again the next season, thus continuing their life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Gryson's Yellow Spider' is by dividing its tuberous roots. This is typically done in spring just before the new growth begins. Gardeners should carefully dig up the clumps of tubers and wash off any soil to see the natural divisions more clearly. Each division should have at least one eye, which is a point from where the new plant will grow. Using a clean, sharp knife, the clumps can be cut into sections, ensuring each piece has at least one eye. The cuts should be allowed to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. After this, the tuber sections can be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep into well-draining soil with the eyes facing upwards.
