Karma Yin Yang dahlia Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' is a stunning ornamental flower known for its distinctive bicolor blooms. Each flower features a dramatic contrast of colors, typically showing a combination of deep purples and crisp whites. The petals are arranged in a neat, geometric pattern that is characteristic of Dahlia flowers, with the darker color usually appearing towards the tips and a lighter shade near the base, enhancing the visual impact of the two-tone effect. The petals themselves are elongated and may have slightly pointed tips, creating a somewhat spiky appearance that adds texture and depth to the flower. As the flowers mature, they open up to reveal a central disc where the different colored petals converge, offering a showy display that can last throughout the growing season. The foliage of 'Karma Yin Yang' provides a lush backdrop to the bright flowers, with green leaves that are typically oval-shaped and may have serrated edges. The leaves are arranged along the stems in a way that creates a full and bushy appearance, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the plant. Overall, the Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' is cherished for its bold, eye-catching flowers and vivid coloring, which make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of drama to their flower beds or as a centerpiece in floral arrangements. Its unique coloration and striking form have helped it stand out as a favorite among the many varieties of Dahlias available to enthusiasts.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Karma Yin Yang Dahlia, Black And White Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from ingestion of dahlias, and they are not known to contain any substances that are harmful to human health when touched or consumed in typical quantities. Therefore, accidental ingestion of dahlia parts is unlikely to result in serious poisoning or severe consequences.
To pets
Dahlias, like the Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang', are not known to be toxic to pets such as cats and dogs. They do not contain substances that are commonly considered poisonous to pets, and ingestion of dahlia flowers or leaves typically does not lead to serious health issues. Nonetheless, if a pet consumes a large amount of any plant material, it may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious toxicity from dahlias is not expected.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
3-4 feet [90-120 cm]
Spread
2 feet [60 cm]
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' is known for its striking bicolored flowers, which can be used to enhance the aesthetic of gardens and landscapes.
- Attracts Pollinators: This variety of dahlia can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
- Cut Flower Production: The blooms of this dahlia are long-lasting when cut and are often used in floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Variety of Uses: Dahlias can be planted in borders, flower beds, and containers, offering flexibility in landscape design.
- Easy Propagation: Tubers can be divided in the spring to multiply your plants or share with others.
- Seasonal Color: Blooming from midsummer until the first frost, Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' provides extended color in the garden.
- Edible blooms: The petals of Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' are edible and can be used to add color and a spice-like flavor to dishes.
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 to produce dahlia wine, which has a unique flavor profile and can be made similarly to potato wine.
- The petals of the Dahlia are edible and can be used to add color and a mild flavor to salads or as a garnish for desserts.
- Dried Dahlia petals can be incorporated into homemade potpourris to create a visually appealing and aromatic blend.
- The blooms can be used to make a natural dye for fabrics, yielding various shades depending on the mordant used.
- Dahlias can be used in art projects, such as pressing the flowers for decorative crafts or using the petals in resin jewelry.
- The sturdy stems of Dahlias can be utilized in the creation of eco-friendly plant supports or trellises for other plants in the garden.
- Dahlia flowers are a source of inspiration for floral designers, often used as a muse for creating textile patterns, wallpaper designs, and other decorative motifs.
- The geometric patterns of Dahlia petals can be studied and used as a teaching tool for mathematics and natural geometry in educational settings.
- Dahlia displays can serve as a habitat and food source for beneficial garden insects, playing a role in natural pest control.
- The spent flowers and pruned material from Dahlia plants can be composted to enrich garden soil with organic matter.
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 Dignacy: Dahlias often symbolize elegance due to their sophisticated and intricate blooms, representing a graceful flair in one's lifestyle.
- Commitment and Bond: Given their complexity and layered petals, dahlias can represent a strong bond and lasting commitment between individuals.
- Change and Variety: Dahlias come in various shapes and colors, thus they can signify change and diversity, embracing difference as a positive aspect of life.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are known for their sturdy stems and ability to stand out in a garden, symbolizing an inner strength and ability to remain graceful under pressure.
- Balance: The 'Karma Yin Yang' variety, in particular, with its two-toned petals, reflects the concept of yin and yang, signifying balance and harmony in life.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture and should be watered thoroughly, but it is crucial not to overwater them. Water the Karma Yin Yang Dahlia when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Generally, this might mean watering once or twice a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water each time, or roughly 0.5 to 1.5 gallons, depending on the weather conditions. During hot spells or in very sandy soils, more frequent watering may be necessary. Avoid getting water on the foliage to prevent fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant early in the day.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, which means the Karma Yin Yang Dahlia will perform best with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for this plant would be in a location where morning sun is prominent, as it will provide the warmth and light needed for optimal growth and flowering. Too much shade will reduce blooming and can increase the risk of fungal diseases.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate temperatures and the Karma Yin Yang Dahlia will flourish in a range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. While dahlias can survive temperatures as low as the upper 30s Fahrenheit, frost will damage the plant. To ensure a healthy plant, it is vital to plant dahlias after the last frost in spring and to dig up the tubers before the first frost in fall to store them over the winter.
PruningPruning encourages the Karma Yin Yang Dahlia to produce more blooms and helps maintain plant health. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut back the stems to a set of leaf nodes or a secondary flower bud. Pruning should be done from the time the plant starts flowering until the end of the blooming season, usually in early autumn, to encourage robust growth and branching.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or well-rotted compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand works well. Regular amendments with organic matter can help maintain soil fertility and structure.
RepottingDahlias, such as the 'Karma Yin Yang', are typically grown as annuals and do not require repotting. Instead, their tubers are lifted after the first frost in fall and replanted each spring after the last frost.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels, as excessive moisture can lead to fungal diseases. They are quite adaptable but perform best in environments with a relative humidity between 40% and 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow dahlias in bright, indirect light with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, sheltered from strong winds, after frost risk.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in the ground after the last frost in spring. The plant quickly sprouts and sends up stems, followed by lush, green leaves as it enters the vegetative growth stage. Throughout the summer, the Karma Yin Yang dahlia enters the flowering stage, producing its distinctive black and white blooms that attract pollinators. After flowering, the plant sets seeds, although many gardeners propagate dahlias through division of tubers rather than seed to maintain the cultivar's specific characteristics. As temperatures drop in autumn, the dahlia enters a period of dormancy; the above-ground foliage dies back, and the tuber goes dormant to survive the winter. In preparation for the next growing season, the tuber can be divided and stored in a cool, frost-free place to be replanted after the threat of frost has passed.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Karma Yin Yang' is through division, typically done in the spring when the plants are beginning to come out of dormancy. Begin by carefully digging up the tubers from the ground, trying not to damage them. Wash the soil off the tubers and cut them into sections using a clean, sharp knife, ensuring that each section has at least one eye—a potential growth point. Allow the cut surfaces to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot. Then, plant these tuber divisions about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eyes facing upward. Water the newly planted tubers well, and soon enough, with warmth and moisture, they'll start to sprout and grow into new Karma Yin Yang plants.
