Dahlia Dahlia 'Hamari Gold' (D)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Hamari Gold' is a vibrant and eye-catching flower known for its large, double blooms which showcase layers of petals that create a full, almost spherical floral display. The petals have a unique gradient of colors, often a blend of warm yellow at the center that transitions to soft orange and then to a rich golden hue at the tips, giving the appearance of a radiant sunset. The overall effect of the color transition is striking and provides a warm, inviting look. The foliage is deep green and serves as a lush backdrop to the bright flowers. Its leaves are typically pinnate with ovate leaflets which can have serrated or gently scalloped edges, enhancing the plant's ornamental appeal.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia, Geogina.
Common names
Dahlia 'Hamari Gold'
- Toxicity
To humans
Dahlias, including the 'Hamari Gold' variety, are not considered toxic to humans. They do not contain substances known to cause poisoning if ingested, and there are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with dahlias.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the 'Hamari Gold', are not considered toxic to pets. They are generally safe when pets come into contact with them or even if they ingest small amounts. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning from dahlias for pets like dogs and cats. However, it's always best to prevent pets from eating plants as a precaution and to avoid potential gastrointestinal upset.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Ornamental Value: Dahlias are known for their vibrant blooms and 'Hamari Gold' offers stunning golden-yellow flowers that add color and beauty to gardens.
- Attracts Pollinators: 'Hamari Gold' attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which helps in the pollination of nearby plants.
- Cut Flower Use: The long-lasting and large blooms are perfect for cut flower arrangements, adding brightness to home decor.
- Variety of Uses: Dahlias are versatile and can be used in borders, containers, or as a focal point in a garden setting.
- Seasonal Interest: They typically bloom from midsummer to fall, providing long-lasting interest and color in the garden when many other plants are past peak.
- Easy Propagation: Tubers can be divided to propagate new plants, offering a cost-effective way to expand your garden or share with others.
- Rewarding Hobby: Growing Dahlias, including the 'Hamari Gold' variety, can be a fulfilling hobby for gardening enthusiasts, with many societies and shows dedicated to them.
- Breeding Potential: Due to their genetic diversity, Dahlias like 'Hamari Gold' are often used by enthusiasts and breeders to create new varieties.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Dahlias can be used as a natural dye source for fabrics, lending a range of hues from pink to orange depending on the petal color.
- The tubers of Dahlias can be carved into stamps for fabric or paper crafts, given their solid texture.
- When dried, Dahlias provide material for potpourri, adding color and a light scent to the mix.
- The flowers can serve as a muse for artists and photographers, often becoming the subject of beautiful works of art.
- Dahlias can be utilized in educational settings to teach about plant biology, hybridization, and horticulture practices.
- Some cultures use Dahlias to decorate religious or ceremonial spaces, as they often symbolize dignity and elegance.
- The petals of Dahlias are edible, and they can add a splash of color and a unique flavor to salads and desserts.
- In the culinary world, Dalia petals can be crystallized with sugar to create an elegant garnish for cakes and pastries.
- Dahlias may be used in arrangements to signify a lasting bond and commitment, making them suitable for long-term events like exhibitions.
- The sturdy stems and vivid colors of Dahlias make them excellent for crafting decorative wreaths and garlands.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Dignity and Elegance: The Dahlia often symbolizes dignity and elegance, reflecting its sophisticated floral structure.
- Commitment and Bond: Given its wide range of colors and stunning blooms, Dahlias are frequently associated with a lifelong commitment and a lasting bond between two people.
- Creative Spirit: The vibrant and expressive colors of the Dahlia 'Hamari Gold' can represent creativity and the drive to innovate.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias can also signify inner strength, as they bloom from a thick stem that can weather various conditions.
- Positive Change: With its lush appearance and variety, the Dahlia is often viewed as a symbol of positive change and diversity.
- Warning or Betrayal: While often positive, in some historical contexts, Dahlias can represent a warning or signal of betrayal, likely due to their intricate petals hiding their center.
- Water
Dahlias, including the 'Hamari Gold,' require regular watering, especially during the growing season. Aim to water them deeply a couple of times a week, providing about 0.5-1 gallons depending on weather conditions. It's essential to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease and instead water at the base of the plant. During periods of high heat, check the soil moisture frequently as dahlias may need more frequent watering. Reduce the frequency as the weather cools or if rain provides natural irrigation.
- Light
Dahlias thrive in a location with full sunlight, meaning the 'Hamari Gold' should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Partial shade is tolerated, especially in hot climates where some afternoon shade can protect the flowers from intense heat, but full sun is best for vigorous growth and optimal flowering.
- Temperature
Dahlias including the 'Hamari Gold' prefer temperatures between 60°F and 70°F for optimal growth but can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F and as high as 90°F. They are not frost-tolerant, and temperatures below freezing will kill the plant. In regions with cold winters, dahlias should be dug up and stored indoors until the following spring.
- Pruning
Prune 'Hamari Gold' dahlias to encourage strong stems, large flowers, and a bushier plant habit. Pinch out the growing tip once the plant has several sets of leaves, typically in late spring. As the plant grows, remove any weak or damaged stems. After the first frost in fall, cut back the stems and dig up the tubers for storage if you are in a cold climate.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Dahlia 'Hamari Gold', commonly known as Dahlia, thrives in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. A good soil mix for dahlias is one part garden soil, one part peat moss or coconut coir, and one part perlite or vermiculite to ensure adequate drainage. To enhance fertility, amend the mixture with well-rotted manure or compost before planting.
- Repotting
Dahlias, including Dahlia 'Hamari Gold', should generally be repotted every year. After the blooming season ends and the foliage has died back, it is best to dig up the tubers, store them for the winter, and then repot in fresh soil mix in spring after the last frost has passed.
- Humidity & Misting
Dahlias, such as Dahlia 'Hamari Gold', do well in moderate humidity conditions. They do not require particularly high humidity, so average ambient humidity levels typically found in temperate climates are sufficient for healthy growth.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has drainage.
Outdoor
Full sun, shelter from wind, enrich soil with compost.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
- Life cycle
The life of a Dahlia 'Hamari Gold', commonly known as Dahlia, begins with the germination of tubers planted in the spring after the last frost. The sprouted tubers develop into bushy plants, which produce lush foliage and begin stem elongation as they prepare for flowering. Flowering occurs in midsummer to early fall, where the Dahlia displays its vibrant yellow-gold blossoms, attracting pollinators to the garden. After the flowering period, as temperatures drop in late fall, the plant's aerial parts begin to wither, signaling the end of the growing season. Gardeners typically cut back the dead foliage and may lift the tubers to store them over winter in colder climates. In the following spring, the stored tubers can be replanted, completing the cycle and starting a new generation of Dahlia 'Hamari Gold'.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Hamari Gold', a stunning variety of dahlias, is by dividing tuber clumps. The best time for this is in the spring, just before the new growth begins. It's important to ensure that each divided section has at least one eye, or bud, from which the new plant will grow. Start by carefully lifting the tuber from the ground after the foliage has been killed by frost or has begun to die back naturally. Wash the soil off and let the tubers dry for a few days. Using a sharp knife, cut the tuber into sections, making sure that each section has at least one eye. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and heal for a couple of days before planting. Plant these sections about 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) deep in well-draining soil and water them in well to establish.