Chocolate Dahlia Dahlia 'Karma Choc' (PBR) (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Karma Choc' is celebrated for its rich, sumptuous blooms that draw the eye with their unique coloration. The flowers are the plant's most striking feature, presenting a captivating blend of deep reds and velvety chocolate hues. Each petal is saturated with these tones, creating a dramatic contrast against the bright green of the foliage. The semi-double flowers have a layered arrangement of petals that gently unfurl around a central disk. The petals can best be described as almost sultry in their luxurious color and texture, making them a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. In addition to its captivating flowers, the Dahlia 'Karma Choc' showcases lush, pinnate foliage that provides a dense and vigorous backdrop for its blooms. The leaves exhibit a classic green shade with a bright sheen, offering a fresh contrast that further accentuates the beauty of the flowers. The overall appearance of the plant is one of opulence and vitality, making it a standout selection for ornamental gardens or for inclusion in decorative floral arrangements.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Karma Chocolate Dahlia, Chocolate Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Karma Choc'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety 'Karma Choc', are not considered poisonous to humans. They are generally regarded as non-toxic and there is no well-documented evidence of them causing poisoning when ingested. Therefore, if dahlias are accidentally consumed, they are unlikely to cause harm or serious illness. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential for unidentified reactions or the presence of pesticides.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the 'Karma Choc', are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. They are not known to contain any substances that are harmful to animals if ingested. Therefore, pets that consume parts of the dahlia plant typically do not experience poisonings or severe health issues as a result. While unlikely to be harmed, it is still best to prevent pets from eating non-food plants to avoid any possible stomach upset or unforeseen reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Dark red
Height
3 feet 3 inches (100 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Visual Appeal: Dahlia 'Karma Choc' offers stunning deep red to chocolate brown flowers that can be a striking addition to any garden.
- Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and butterflies, which are beneficial for pollinating other plants in the garden.
- Versatile Use: Can be used in flower beds, borders, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements due to their long vase life.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to cultivate and can grow in a range of conditions, making them suitable for many gardeners.
- Extended Bloom Time: Dahlia 'Karma Choc' has a lengthy flowering season, often blooming from mid-summer until the first frost.
- Rewarding for Growers: They can be particularly rewarding for growers as they produce abundant blooms that can be enjoyed throughout the season.
- Enhances Garden Variety: Introducing this Dahlia adds unique color and texture to a garden, enhancing its aesthetic diversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye production: The petals of the Dahlia can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering hues that range from pinks to deep purples depending on the mordant used.
- Edible decor: Dahlia petals are edible and can be used to decorate cakes and pastries, adding an elegant and colorful touch to desserts.
- Photography subject: The striking appearance of the Dahlia 'Karma Choc' makes it a popular subject for photographers, particularly in the realm of macro photography.
- Teaching tool: Horticulturalists and educators might use the Dahlia as a teaching tool to illustrate principles of plant breeding and hybridization, as the 'Karma Choc' variety is a result of careful selection.
- Floral art: The rich colors and complex shape of Dahlia blooms lend themselves to floral art, such as creating intricate designs or "flower mandalas" for competitions or personal enjoyment.
- Wedding bouquets: The Dahlia's unique colors and full-bodied look make it a sought-after flower for wedding bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Instead of paper or plastic, biodegradable confetti made from dried Dahlia petals can be used for celebrations or events.
- Beekeeping attraction: As dahlias are attractive to bees, planting them can support local bee populations and therefore aid in beekeeping and pollination.
- Culinary ingredient: Some gourmet chefs use Dahlia tubers much like a root vegetable in sophisticated dishes, taking advantage of their unique flavor and texture.
- Craft projects: The robust petals of the Dahlia can be used in various craft projects, like pressed flower art or natural potpourri.
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: The Dahlia's sophisticated bloom represents poise and grace, reflecting a dignified beauty.
- Change and Variety: With its diverse shapes and colors, the Dahlia symbolizes diversity and the ability to stand out from the crowd.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias can be given as a symbol of a lasting commitment and an everlasting bond between two people.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are hardy flowers that continue to bloom despite challenges, representing resilience and inner strength.
- Creative Spirit: The unique and vibrant appearance of the Dahlia is often associated with a burst of creativity and inspiration.
- Warning of Change: As Dahlia blooms can change in appearance, they're sometimes used to represent a sense of warning or the presence of change.
WaterChocolate Dahlia should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out somewhat between waterings. This generally means watering deeply once a week during the active growth period, but this can vary depending on climate conditions such as heat and humidity. It’s crucial to avoid overwatering to prevent rot, so ensure the plant is in well-draining soil. In hot, dry weather, you may need to water twice a week, providing approximately one to two gallons of water for each plant depending on the size and soil moisture.
LightChocolate Dahlia thrives in a location that provides full sun for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. An ideal spot is one that gets direct sunlight from the morning until the early afternoon, as intense afternoon sun in hot climates can sometimes be too harsh. Partial shade in the afternoon can be beneficial in very hot weather to protect the blooms and foliage from scorching.
TemperatureChocolate Dahlia prefers temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. It can survive minimum temperatures of just above freezing, but frost can be deadly. To ensure a good blooming season, protect the plant from temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and from extreme heat above 90 degrees Fahrenheit by providing shade or mulch to cool the roots.
PruningPrune Chocolate Dahlia to encourage bushier growth and more prolific blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cutting back the plants by one-third in midsummer can rejuvenate them for a fall display. The best time to prune is when new growth appears in the spring and when deadheading during the flowering season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilChocolate Dahlia requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A best soil mix can be made with equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage. Compost or a balanced fertilizer can be added for additional nutrients.
RepottingChocolate Dahlia should be repotted annually, usually in the spring after the last frost, as they are tuberous and need to be divided to prevent overcrowding and to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. It is best to aim for a humidity level between 40-60%, which usually coincides with outdoor conditions in their growing season.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright indirect light and ensure good airflow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, sheltered from strong winds, after frost risk.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Karma Choc' begins as a tuber, planted in well-drained soil after the last frost when the ground has warmed. The tuber sprouts and grows into a bushy plant, developing a sturdy stem and leaves, with adequate sunlight, water, and fertilizer promoting healthy growth. As the plant matures, flower buds emerge and bloom into the distinctive dark red to chocolate-colored flowers by mid to late summer. This flowering stage can last until the first frost, with deadheading spent flowers encouraging continued blooming. As the cold weather approaches, the plant's above-ground growth dies back, and the tubers can be dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, frost-free place over winter. In spring, the cycle begins anew when the stored tubers are replanted, giving rise to the next generation of 'Karma Choc' dahlias.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Karma Choc', known commonly as simply Dahlia, is best propagated by division, typically done in the spring. This method involves dividing the tuberous roots of the plant when they begin to sprout new shoots. Gardeners must ensure that each division has at least one eye, or bud, from which the new plant will grow. Divisions should be cut using a sharp, sterile knife to minimize the risk of disease. The cut tubers are then allowed to dry for a few days before planting them about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil. Adequate spacing, usually 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters), allows for sufficient air circulation and growth room. Care must be taken to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to encourage healthy root development and plant growth.
