Dahlia Dahlia 'Karenglen' (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Karenglen' is a stunning display of color and form, with a floral abundance that captures the eye. Its flowers are large and showy, bringing bold visual interest wherever they are planted. The blooms themselves are a spectacle, featuring layers of petals that can range in shape from spiky to soft and rolled, often presenting in a range of hues including soft pinks, deep purples, vibrant reds, or a combination of such colors, sometimes with contrasting edges or centers. Each petal contributes to the flower's overall shape, which may be spherical, pincushion-like, or slightly flattened. The petals can be arranged in a tight whirl that looks sculpted, or they can be more loosely configured for a casual essence of grace and movement. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Karenglen' is lush, with green leaves providing the perfect backdrop for the brilliant flowers. These leaves have a typical dahlia appearance, being compound with several leaflets creating an elegant and rich green texture that complements the floriferous display above. The plant is well-branched, which allows it to host numerous flowers, making it a prolific bloomer throughout its growing season. When cultivated in ideal conditions and with proper care, Dahlia 'Karenglen' is capable of providing a continuous display of its stunning blooms. It's worth noting that while size is not the focus, this dahlia, like others, has a strong presence and requires adequate space to showcase its beauty effectively. To sum up, Dahlia 'Karenglen' is a captivating plant characterized by its striking flowers and lush foliage, contributing to a vibrant and showy presence.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Karenglen'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported for the ingestion of dahlia flowers or tubers. In some cultures, dahlia tubers have even been used as a food source after proper preparation. However, it's essential to mention that some individuals might have a sensitivity or allergic reaction to dahlias, which could cause mild skin irritation or an upset stomach upon handling or ingesting the plant, but these are not common reactions. If any symptoms do occur, they are typically not severe.
To pets
Dahlias are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Should a pet ingest parts of a dahlia plant, they are unlikely to suffer any serious harm due to its non-toxic nature. However, as with humans, some pets might have an individual sensitivity or allergic reaction that could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms are generally not severe and should resolve on their own. If a pet displays signs of distress after ingesting dahlia, it is always wise to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Flowers: Dahlias provide large, vibrant blooms that add a splash of color to gardens.
- Variety of Colors: 'Karenglen' Dahlia comes in different hues, offering gardeners a range of color options.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlia flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that aid in pollination.
- Long Blooming Period: Dahlias have a lengthy flowering season, from mid-summer to fall, which keeps gardens lively.
- Great for Cut Flowers: The blooms of Dahlias, including 'Karenglen', are excellent for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Versatile Planting: Suitable for beds, borders, and containers, Dahlias are versatile in landscape design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Source - The petals of the Dahlia can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, giving a range of colors from pinks to yellows depending on the mordant used.
- Photography Subject - Dahlias are popular among photographers for practicing macro and nature photography due to their intricate patterns and bright colors.
- Culinary Garnish - The flowers of some Dahlia varieties are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and specialty cocktails for an elegant touch.
- Artistic Inspiration - Artists often use Dahlias as subjects in paintings, drawings, and other forms of visual art due to their diverse and vibrant appearance.
- Floral Crafts - Dahlias can be used in crafting, such as making natural potpourri, pressed flower art, or dried flower arrangements.
- Teaching Tool - Horticulture educators use Dahlias to teach about plant breeding and genetics because of their many varieties and hybridization potential.
- Garden Design - Dahlias, with their array of sizes and colors, are used in landscape design to add structure and color to garden beds and borders.
- Holiday Decorations - Dahlias can be incorporated into festive arrangements or wreaths for holidays like Thanksgiving or Halloween due to their autumnal hues.
- Soil Health Indicator - Gardeners sometimes observe Dahlias for signs of soil conditions, as a healthy bloom can indicate good soil fertility and pH balance.
- Scented Oils - Although not commonly known for their fragrance, some Dahlias can be used to produce lightly scented oils for homemade perfumes or aromatherapy products.
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 exude sophistication with their intricate petals and variety of colors, representing the gracefulness of one's character.
- Change and Variety: Given the Dahlia's wide range of colors and forms, they symbolize diversity and the ability to gracefully adapt to life's changes.
- Creativity: The Dahlia's vivid colors and unique patterns are often associated with a burst of creative inspiration and the celebration of originality.
- Commitment and a Strong Bond: Dahlias are known to bloom for extended periods, signifying a lifelong commitment or an everlasting bond between two individuals.
- Warning of Betrayal: In the Victorian language of flowers, Dahlias sometimes represented a sense of betrayal or instability, likely due to the multitude of appearances they can take on.
WaterFor your Dahlia 'Karenglen', it's crucial to maintain consistently moist soil without over-saturating, as dahlias do not like to sit in water. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, generally twice a week, but adjust depending on weather conditions. In the active growing season, typically this means providing about 1-2 gallons per week to keep the soil evenly moist. During hot, dry spells, water may be needed more frequently, but always check the soil moisture level first to avoid waterlogging.
LightDahlias like 'Karenglen' thrive best in full sunlight. Ensure the plant receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and bloom production. The ideal spot for this dahlia would be in an area of your garden that receives morning sun and partial shade in the afternoon to protect it from intense late-day heat.
TemperatureDahlias such as 'Karenglen' prefer temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can survive minimum night temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit but should not be exposed to temperatures below freezing. Ideally, keep your dahlia in a place where the temperature does not drop below 50 degrees or rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPrune your Dahlia 'Karenglen' to promote bushier growth and increase bloom production. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. The best time for more extensive pruning is early spring, just as new shoots appear. Dahlias benefit from cutting back about once a month during the growing season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5. A mix containing loamy soil, peat moss, and sand promotes good drainage and structure. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure to boost nutrients.
RepottingDahlias generally don't need frequent repotting. Repot them every spring to refresh the soil and divide the tubers if necessary.
Humidity & MistingDahlias tolerate most humidity levels but prefer moderate conditions. They do not require high humidity.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlias in bright, indirect light and rotate.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, and provide space for growth.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Karenglen', commonly known as Dahlia, begins its life cycle as a tuber planted in the soil in spring after the last frost. The tuber sprouts and grows into a stem with leaves, and by midsummer, the plant starts to produce its characteristic vibrant blooms. Throughout the growing season, Dahlias will continue to flower, especially if deadheaded regularly to promote further blooming. As temperatures cool and autumn approaches, the Dahlia's above-ground growth starts to yellow and die back. After the first frost, the tubers can be dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place for the winter. The following spring, the dormant tubers can be replanted, thus beginning the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: Dahlia 'Karenglen', commonly known as Dahlia, is generally propagated through division of tubers, which is the most popular method. This is typically done in the spring after the last frost has passed when the soil begins to warm. Gardeners dig up the overwintered clumps of tubers, carefully separate them ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can emerge. Then, the divided tubers are planted into the soil at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters), spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow adequate room for growth. These sections will grow into new dahlias over the course of the growing season, producing the beloved blooms for which these plants are known.
