Dahlia Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha' (Sin/lil)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha' is a stunning plant known for its distinctive and vibrant blooms. The flowers showcase a delightful mix of colors, typically featuring petals that blend shades of pink and peach with subtle hints of yellow at their base, creating a warm and inviting appearance. Each petal is elegantly arranged in a dense, symmetrical pattern, contributing to the flower's full and lush look. The petals sometimes show delicate points at their tips, adding to the flower's overall textured and intricate appeal. The blossoms are complemented by a backdrop of rich, green foliage. The leaves are shaped with gentle serrations on the edges, giving them a slightly ruffled look. They are attached to sturdy stems that support the weight of the blooms. Together, the vivid floral displays and verdant leaves make Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha' a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements, beloved for their bright and cheerful presence.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the cultivar 'Harvest Samantha', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, it's important to note that sensitivity can vary from person to person, and consuming any part of a dahlia plant may cause mild stomach upset in some individuals. Consequently, it's advisable to avoid ingesting dahlias, although they do not typically pose a risk of serious poisoning or life-threatening symptoms to humans.
To pets
Dahlias, such as 'Harvest Samantha', are also considered non-toxic to pets. They are not known to contain any substances that are poisonous to animals like dogs and cats. Nonetheless, pets may experience gastrointestinal upset if they consume significant amounts of the plant. This could result in symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea, but dahlia ingestion is unlikely to cause severe or long-term health effects in pets. It is always prudent to monitor your pet and consult with a veterinarian if you observe any health issues following dahlia consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
1-2 feet (0.3-0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Dahlias are known for their stunning and colorful blooms, adding aesthetic beauty to gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility in Landscaping: These flowers can be planted in borders, flower beds, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias typically flower from midsummer until the first frosts, providing a long season of interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms of dahlias can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects to the garden.
- Wide Range of Colors: Available in a variety of hues, dahlias can be used to create a vibrant and diverse color scheme.
- Cut Flower Use: Dahlia flowers are excellent for cutting and creating indoor floral arrangements with a long vase life.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia tubers can be used as a substitute for potatoes in some culinary applications, as they are edible when cooked properly.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be utilized as natural straws or for crafting small flutes and other musical instruments.
- Dahlia flowers can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, providing a range of colors from pinks to oranges, depending on the color of the petals.
- Petal confetti made from dried dahlias adds a colorful, biodegradable option for celebrations such as weddings or parties.
- The plant's sturdy stems can be fashioned into lightweight stakes for supporting other plants in the garden.
- Dahlias in full bloom can be used as a natural indicator of the pH balance of the soil, as the color of the flower can change based on the soil's acidity or alkalinity.
- Decomposed dahlia flowers and foliage can be added to compost piles, helping to enrich the compost with beneficial nutrients.
- When dried, dahlia stems and flowers can be incorporated into homemade potpourris, offering a delicate fragrance to a room.
- Dahlia flowers can be pressed and used in botanical art or as decorative elements in crafts like card making and scrapbooking.
- The sturdy, vibrant dahlia blooms can be used as natural bowls for serving light snacks at events, infusing an eco-friendly touch to the table setting.
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: Dahlias are known for their stunning blooms and variety which are often associated with elegance and dignity, making them a popular choice in celebratory and formal occasions.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: With its many varieties and unique flower patterns, the Dahlia represents diversity and the ability to stand out from the crowd.
- Creativity: The intricate petals and vivid colors of the Dahlia are often linked to a burst of creativity and inspiration.
- Change and Transition: As the Dahlia blooms from summer into fall, it is often seen as a symbol for change and the ability to thrive despite challenges.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gift, Dahlias can symbolize a lasting bond and a commitment to another person.
- Warning and Betrayal: Some cultures view the Dahlia as a symbol of betrayal and instability, due to their delicate petals that can easily be damaged.
WaterDahlias, including the variety 'Harvest Samantha', should be watered deeply to encourage strong root growth, with watering generally required 2 to 3 times per week. It's crucial to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. During the active growing season, a dahlia may need about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week, depending on the weather conditions. Less frequent watering is needed during cool or rainy weather, and more might be required during hot spells. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as dahlias do not like to sit in overly wet soil.
LightDahlias thrive best in full sun with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. 'Harvest Samantha' should be planted in a location where it receives morning sunlight and protection from the intense afternoon heat if possible. Avoid places that are shaded for a significant part of the day, as this can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
Temperature'Harvest Samantha' Dahlias prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and cooler temperatures at night but can tolerate a range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Frost is a significant threat to dahlias, and they should not be exposed to temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, as it can cause damage to the plant. The ideal growing conditions involve warm days and cooler nights, which are typically experienced in late spring through to the early fall seasons.
PruningPruning Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha' can improve air circulation and redirect energy towards the production of larger flowers. It's recommended to prune or pinch the tips of the main stem when the plant reaches about 12 inches in height to encourage bushier growth. Throughout the blooming season, regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Pruning is best done in dry weather to decrease the chance of disease spread.
CleaningAs needed
SoilFor Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha', use a well-draining soil mix with loamy or sandy texture enriched with organic matter. Aim for a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Harvest Samantha', should be repotted annually after the last frost and when new shoots appear, typically in spring.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Harvest Samantha' prefer moderate to high humidity levels but are adaptable to most ambient outdoor conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for indoor Dahlias.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil and space for growth.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Harvest Samantha' begins its life as a tuber, which, when planted after the last frost in spring, will sprout and grow stems and leaves. The plant enters a vegetative state, where it focuses on growing taller and producing more foliage. As it matures and environmental conditions are favorable, typically in summer or early autumn, it transitions to the flowering stage, producing vibrant blossoms. After flowering, the dahlias set seeds, although many cultivators propagate them vegetatively via division of the tubers. As temperatures cool in late autumn, the aerial parts of the plant die back; the tubers can be left in the ground or dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place over winter. In the following spring, the cycle starts anew when the tubers are replanted.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating the Dahlia 'Harvest Samantha' is through division of its tuberous roots. This process is typically done in the spring, just before the growing season begins, when the soil is workable and the last frost has passed. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground using a fork, ensuring minimal damage. Each clump should ideally have at least one eye, which is a small bud from which the new plant will grow. The tubers can be cut apart with a sharp, sterile knife, making sure each divided section has at least one good eye. The cut surfaces are then allowed to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. The divided tubers are planted about 6-8 inches (15-20 centimeters) deep and spaced approximately 18-24 inches (45-60 centimeters) apart, to allow enough room for growth.
