Dahlia Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' (Fim)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b', characterized by its striking blooms, is a member of the dahlia family showcasing a vibrant display of floral beauty. The appearances of these flowers are remarkable with their well-defined petals that layer in a symmetrical fashion to create an ornate and intricate blossom. The petals are typically elongated and may exhibit a slight curvature that accentuates the flower's depth and volume. The coloration of Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' is a visual feast, usually comprised of rich hues that can range from deep purples to energetic pinks, or a combination of the two which can sometimes give a marbled effect. The blossoms often have a gradient or variegation, transitioning from darker at the base to lighter or more intense at the tips of the petals. These dahlias, being of the 'Fimbriated' type, also feature unique petal edging that enhances their visual impact. The edges of each petal are frilly or feathery, providing a textural contrast to the smoothness of the petals’ main body. This fimbriation adds to the dramatic flair of the flower and a visual softness that is quite distinctive. The center of the Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' flower is typically a contrast in both color and texture, often appearing more muted in color with a demure yellow or pale shade that highlights the ring of stamens, giving rise to a visual focal point in the middle of the velvety petals. The foliage of this plant generally comes in a lush green color, with leaves that are medium in size and have a pinnate pattern of leaflets along the central stem. The leaves help to frame the flowers on a canvas of verdant green, offering a cooling reprieve from the intense excitement of the blooms. Overall, Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' is celebrated for its showy, vibrant flowers that can become the centerpiece of any garden display or work as a dramatic floral arrangement. Their appearance exudes a festive and exotic charisma that attracts both the casual observer and the enthusiast.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Kenora Macop-b Dahlia, Decorative Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-B' (Fim).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. While they are not intended for consumption, incidental ingestion typically does not result in poisoning or serious health effects. However, as with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause mild stomach upset or skin irritation in some people. It is always best to avoid eating ornamental plants and to keep them out of the reach of small children who might accidentally ingest them.
To pets
Dahlias are also regarded as non-toxic to pets. If a pet, such as a dog or cat, were to consume parts of a dahlia, they are unlikely to suffer from serious poisoning. Nonetheless, ingestion can occasionally lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, mainly due to the consumption of non-food plant matter rather than specific toxicity. Pet owners should still discourage their pets from eating plants, both to prevent any potential stomach upset and to protect the plants themselves.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: The Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its large, showy flowers.
- Pollinator Friendly: Attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, flowerbeds, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Seasonal Interest: Blooms from mid-summer to first frost, providing long-lasting blooms when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Ease of Propagation: Can be easily propagated from cuttings or tubers, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Variety of Uses: Ideal for use in floral arrangements and bouquets due to its sturdy stems and vibrant colors.
- Adaptability: Grows well in a variety of soil types, provided they are well-draining.
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 produce a range of natural dyes for textiles, with colors varying depending on the part of the flower used.
- Edible Tubers: The tubers of Dahlia plants can be consumed like root vegetables and have a flavor akin to a cross between carrots and potatoes.
- Crafts and Decoration: Dried Dahlia blooms can be incorporated into crafts, such as making potpourri, or for decorative uses in stationary and scrapbooking.
- Garden Pest Control: The distinctive scent of Dahlia flowers can deter certain garden pests, contributing to a healthier garden ecosystem.
- Photography Subject: Due to their bold colors and varied forms, Dahlias can be an excellent subject for photographers specializing in plant and flower imagery.
- Floral Arrangements: Dahlias add structure and color diversity to flower arrangements and are often used in professional floristry for events and decorations.
- Wedding Decor: Dahlias are a popular choice in wedding bouquets and centerpieces due to their romantic appearance and large blossoms.
- Educational Model: As Dahlias have a variety of visible plant parts, they can be used in educational settings to teach about flower anatomy and pollination.
- Composting: Spent Dahlia plants can be composted to create a nutrient-rich compost, contributing to a sustainable garden cycle.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible Dahlia petals can be used as a colorful garnish for a variety of dishes, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace under pressure: Dahlia flowers, including 'Kenora Macop-b', are known to symbolize composure and dignity, representing one's ability to remain graceful even in challenging situations.
- Diversity and uniqueness: With its wide range of colors and forms, the Dahlia represents the idea that everyone is unique and there is beauty in diversity.
- Change and transition: Because the Dahlia continues to bloom through the end of summer and into fall, it has become a symbol of change and the ability to thrive despite transformations.
- Commitment and bond that lasts forever: The Dahlia, with its layered petals and intricate patterns, can symbolize a lasting bond and commitment between two people, often given as a gift to represent a long-term relationship.
- Elegance and inner strength: The visual complexity and undeniable elegance of the Dahlia make it a symbol of inner strength, dignity, and the quiet allure that comes with both.
WaterDahlias require a consistent watering schedule to ensure their soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Generally, dahlias should be watered two to three times a week, supplying about 1-2 gallons of water each time depending on weather conditions. In hotter, drier periods they may need water more frequently, while in cooler, wetter conditions they may require less. The key is to check the soil moisture at about an inch below the surface; if it feels dry, it's time to water. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases.
LightDahlias thrive in a spot that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. The ideal location will have morning sunlight and afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates, to help protect the blooms from intense midday heat. They perform best when they have ample sunlight to support their vigorous growth and bloom production.
TemperatureDahlias prefer temperatures that range between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and around 60 degrees at night. They can survive temporarily outside this range, with a maximum tolerance of about 90 degrees and a minimum of about 50 degrees Fahrenheit before they start to experience stress. The ideal conditions are a moderate climate without extreme fluctuations.
PruningPruning dahlias is necessary to promote bushier growth and more prolific blooming. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage branching. Throughout the blooming season, you should deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. The best time for major pruning is early spring as new growth appears or just before the growing season begins in your area.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias (common name for Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b') thrive best in rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good soil mix for dahlias includes a blend of loamy soil, peat moss, and sand to ensure proper drainage. Additionally, incorporating organic matter such as compost or aged manure will benefit the plants by providing necessary nutrients for growth.
RepottingDahlias should be repotted typically every spring or whenever they outgrow their current pots. However, it's more common to dig up the tubers annually after the first frost, store them for winter, and plant them again the next season to ensure optimal growth and bloom.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels. They do well with ambient outdoor humidity but should not be in an environment that is too moist, as this can encourage fungal diseases. Dahlias are more tolerant of humidity fluctuations than many other plants and do not require specific adjustments for humidity in most climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, consistent moisture, and staking for support.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun with rich soil and provide regular water.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' (Fim), commonly known as Dahlia, starts its life as a tuber, which is planted after the danger of frost has passed in spring. The tubers sprout and grow into sturdy stems with lush foliage, during which water and full sunlight are crucial for development. Throughout the summer, the Dahlia produces its vibrant and showy flowers, blooming from midsummer until the first fall frosts. The flowers can be deadheaded to encourage more blooms and to maintain plant vitality. As temperatures cool, the Dahlia's growth slows, and the plant enters dormancy after the first frost, with tubers overwintering in the ground or being dug up and stored in a cool, dry place if the climate is not suitable. The cycle repeats the following spring when tubers are replanted or new growth emerges from overwintered tubers in the ground.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Kenora Macop-b' is often propagated through division, which is best done in spring when the plant begins to actively grow. This involves carefully separating the tubers, each with at least one eye or growth point, making sure that each division has at least one eye, which is a point from which the new dahlia stem will grow. You then plant these tubers in well-draining soil about 6 to 8 inches deep (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) and spaced about 18 to 24 inches apart (45 to 60 centimeters). This method harnesses the dahlia's natural tuberous growth habit to produce new, genetically identical plants, and is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness.
