Dahlia Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid' (Ba)

Names

• Family

  Asteraceae

• Synonyms

  Garden Dahlia

• Common names

  Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid' (Ba)

Toxicity

• To humans

  Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid', are generally considered to be non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause mild irritation or an allergic reaction in some people.

• To pets

  Dahlias, such as Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid', are not known to be toxic to pets. They are generally safe and do not typically pose a risk if pets ingest parts of the plant. Nonetheless, pet owners should always monitor their pets for any signs of distress after eating any plant material, as individual animals might react differently.

Characteristics

• Life cycle

  Perennials

• Foliage type

  Deciduous

• Color of leaves

  Green

• Flower color

  Pink

• Height

  4 feet (1.22 meters)

• Spread

  2 feet (0.61 meters)

• Plant type

  Bulb

• Hardiness zones

  9

• Native area

  Mexico

General Benefits

• Ornamental appeal: Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid' contributes to the aesthetics of gardens with its attractive flowers, enhancing the visual interest of landscaped areas.
• Pollinator attraction: This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems and pollination.
• Versatile planting: Dahlias are suitable for borders, containers, and as cut flowers, offering flexibility in garden design and use.
• Long blooming period: With a lengthy flowering season, Dahlia 'Kathryn's Cupid' offers extended periods of color and interest in the garden.
• Wide color range: Dahlias come in a variety of colors, providing multiple options for coordinating with garden color schemes.

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

• Dye Source: Dahlia petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of colors from soft pinks to bold purples depending on the pH levels during the dyeing process.
• Food Coloring: The pigments in Dahlias are sometimes used in food coloring to provide a natural alternative to synthetic dyes, adding a touch of color to pastries and confections.
• Fiber Art: The sturdy stems of Dahlias can be incorporated into fiber arts, such as basket weaving or papermaking, adding texture and botanical interest.
• Fish Poison: In some cultures, Dahlia tubers are known to have been used to poison fish, a practice that makes fish easier to catch as they become lethargic or float to the surface.
• Molluscicide: Dahlia is sometimes used as a natural means to repel or control slugs and snails in the garden due to its toxicity to these pests when they ingest parts of the plant.
• Edible Blooms: The petals of certain varieties of Dahlias are edible and can be used to add a splash of color and a unique flavor to salads or as an elegant garnish on dishes.
• Thermal Insulation: Dried Dahlia stems and flowers have been used in creating natural thermal insulation materials due to their air-trapping structure when packed tightly.
• Potpourri: Dried Dahlia flowers can be included in potpourri mixes for their shape and color, contributing to a visually appealing and aromatic blend.
• Art Supplies: The diversity of Dahlia's color and form has inspired artists to use its petals and even entire blooms as components in crafting, such as in making floral collages or botanical prints.
• Eco-friendly Confetti: Instead of using paper or plastic confetti, Dahlia petals can be used as a biodegradable alternative for celebrations, adding a colorful and environmentally friendly touch to any event.

Feng Shui

Dahlias are not specifically referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice, but as a flowering plant, they can be used to add yang energy to a garden, increasing the vibrant and positive energy of the space. They should be placed in areas that you want to activate or bring attention to, but be mindful of their colors; in Feng Shui, different colors can correspond to different elements and areas of the Bagua map. Bright colors like those of Dahlias are often used to stimulate wealth (Southeast), fame (South), or love and marriage (Southwest).

Zodiac Sign Compitability

Dahlias are not used in astrology practice.

Plant Symbolism

• Elegance: Dahlias, with their intricate petals and stunning form, are often seen as a symbol of elegance and dignity.
• Diversity: The variety of colors and forms of dahlias, including 'Kathryn's Cupid', can represent diversity and uniqueness.
• Creativity: The vivid and diverse appearance of dahlias can also signify an artistic spirit and creative expression.
• Change and Transformation: Dahlias bloom from midsummer through fall, symbolizing change as seasons transition.
• Commitment and Stability: 'Kathryn's Cupid', like other dahlias, has a strong stem that can symbolize a strong and stable relationship.
• Warning or Betrayal: In historical contexts, dahlias have sometimes been seen as symbols of betrayal or instability, possibly due to their sudden drooping when they lack water.