Dahlia Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose' (WL)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose' is a stunning ornamental flower that features showy blooms known for their unique form and vibrant coloration. These flowers exhibit a waterlily shape, hence often referred to as waterlily dahlias, with layers of delicate petals that curve gently towards the stem, creating a somewhat cupped effect. The petals themselves are an enchanting blend of colors, typically displaying shades of pink and lavender with subtle gradients and sometimes a luminescent quality that seems to catch and reflect the light. The center of the flower houses a group of smaller, more tubular petals and reproductive parts, and is usually a deeper shade, which provides an alluring contrast to the lighter pinkish outer petal tones. The foliage of 'Kilburn Rose' is deep green, which forms a lush backdrop that makes the colors of the blooms stand out even more. The leaves are typically pinnate with leaflets arranged on either side of the stalk. When in full bloom, the dahlia presents a dazzling display that can add a touch of romance and elegance to any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose' (WL).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose' is not considered to be toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from consuming dahlias, so there is limited information on symptoms or consequences related to ingestion. However, as with any non-food plant, it's not advisable to eat them, and doing so may cause mild stomach upset in some individuals due to the presence of non-digestible components or potential contamination with pesticides.
To pets
Dahlias, including the 'Kilburn Rose' variety, are generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests part of a dahlia plant, it is unlikely to suffer from serious poisoning. However, the consumption of any non-food plant can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, which can manifest as vomiting or diarrhea. If any concerning symptoms occur, it's best to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Blooms: Produces large, striking flowers that serve as a focal point in any garden or landscape.
- Vibrant Color: Offers a range of colors from the 'Kilburn Rose' cultivar, bringing a splash of color to garden beds and borders.
- Pollinator Attraction: Flowers attract a variety of pollinators, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Long Blooming Season: Has a relatively long blooming period, providing garden interest from mid-summer through fall.
- Cut Flower Use: Flowers are ideal for cutting and creating floral arrangements due to their beauty and size.
- Versatility: Suited for planting in a variety of garden settings including borders, containers, and as a standout specimen.
- Diversity of Forms: Offers a variety of forms, with different petal shapes and arrangements contributing to diverse garden aesthetics.
- Easy to Grow: Considered relatively easy to cultivate for both novice and experienced gardeners, with basic gardening practices.
- Propagation: Can be propagated from seed, cuttings, or division, making it easy to increase stock or share with other gardeners.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia petals are edible and can be used to add color and a mild flavor to salads and desserts.
- The tubers of dahlias can be used as a carbohydrate source, similar to sweet potatoes in some traditional cuisines.
- Dahlias can be pressed or dried to create natural art pieces or decorations for greeting cards and bookmarks.
- The vibrant flowers can be used in food presentation to enhance visual appeal for special dishes at restaurants.
- Dahlia flowers can be used in the production of natural dyes for fabrics and textiles.
- The sturdy stems of dahlias can be used in floral arrangements to provide support to other, more delicate flowers.
- Whole dahlia flowers can be crystallized with sugar and used as elegant edible decorations for cakes and pastries.
- Dahlia blooms can be floated in large bowls of water as a table centerpiece for events and weddings.
- The shapes and patterns of dahlia petals can inspire designs in various art forms, including fashion, jewelry, and graphic design.
- Due to their brightness and intricate form, dahlias are often used in photography and botanical illustration classes to teach students about capturing floral details.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace Under Pressure: The Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose', like many other dahlias, is known for its elegant blooms that maintain their composure even as they reach full maturity, symbolizing poise and dignity even in stressful situations.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: Dahlias come in a vast array of colors, shapes, and sizes, and the 'Kilburn Rose' is no exception. Its distinctive pattern and coloration represent individuality and the diverse ways one can stand out in a crowd.
- Change and Transformation: Dahlias are perennial plants that return year after year, often with new and unpredictable variations. The 'Kilburn Rose' stands as a symbol of the constant flux in life and the ability to thrive amidst change.
- Commitment and Bonds That Last: With the dahlia's strong stems and long-lasting blooms, they are seen as a symbol of enduring connections and a lasting commitment between two people.
- Elegance and Inner Strength: The Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose' is a study in the balance between refined beauty and a hardy nature. This balance signifies that true elegance comes with inner resilience.
WaterDahlias prefer a regular watering schedule that allows the soil to remain moist but not soggy. For 'Kilburn Rose' Dahlias, water deeply once or twice a week, providing about one inch of water each time, which equates to roughly 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. During hot and dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, but always check the top inch of soil for moisture before watering again. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases, and instead, use a soaker hose or drip irrigation system to deliver water directly to the base of the plant.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, which means that 'Kilburn Rose' should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. A spot that is sunny from late morning through the afternoon is typically ideal. However, in very hot climates, providing some afternoon shade can help protect the blooms from intense heat.
TemperatureDahlias, including 'Kilburn Rose', prefer temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit but can tolerate a range from 50 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. They are not frost-tolerant, and temperatures that drop below 50 degrees can damage the plant. Always plant dahlias after all danger of frost has passed.
Pruning'Kilburn Rose' Dahlias benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers throughout the growing season to redirect energy to new blooms. Cut back the stems by about a third in early summer to promote branching. The best time for more significant pruning is just as the new shoots begin to emerge in the spring.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer a rich, well-draining soil with a pH of about 6.5-7.0. The best soil mix for Dahlias like 'Kilburn Rose' would be a combination of loam, peat moss, and sand to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Additionally, working in compost or well-rotted manure can provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Kilburn Rose' variety, are typically grown from tubers and should be planted in the ground annually. They do not require repotting in the conventional sense but should be lifted and stored during the winter in colder climates and replanted after the danger of frost has passed.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Kilburn Rose' are tolerant of a wide range of humidity conditions but prefer moderate levels. They do well in outdoor environments where the natural variation in humidity is not extreme.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light and good airflow for dahlia indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, and provide space for growth.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA.
Life cycleDahlia 'Kilburn Rose' begins its life cycle as a tuber, which is planted in the soil during spring when the threat of frost has passed and the ground temperature has warmed. The tuber sprouts and develops into a seedling, with the first true leaves emerging and photosynthesis beginning. As the plant matures, a strong stem with multiple leaves grows, eventually producing the distinctive large and colorful 'Kilburn Rose' flowers during the summer and early fall. After flowering, the plant enters a period of senescence in late fall as temperatures drop and day length shortens; at this stage, the above-ground part of the plant starts to die back. The plant then goes into a dormancy phase over the winter, where the tuber survives underground. In the spring, the cycle starts anew with the tuber producing a fresh sprout, repeating the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Spring
The Dahlia 'Kilburn Rose', commonly known simply as dahlia, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method. This process is usually done in the spring, just before or as the new growth begins. To propagate by division, gardeners dig up the tuberous roots of the dahlia after the foliage has died back post-frost and the soil has dried out somewhat. The clump of tubers are then carefully separated by hand or with a sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a bud that will grow into a new plant. The divisions should be allowed to dry for a day to form a callous over the cuts, which helps to prevent rot when planted. The tubers are then planted in well-draining soil, with the eyes facing upwards, covered with about 2 inches (approximately 5 centimeters) of soil. This method of division helps to rejuvenate older plants, control size, and produce new dahlias without purchasing new plants.
