Dahlia Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' is a stunning plant characterized by its vibrant, sunny-hued flowers. The blooms are a soft lemon-yellow color, radiating warmth and adding a cheerful pop to any garden setting. Each flower is composed of numerous individual petals that collectively form a full, rounded shape, often referred to as a pincushion appearance because of the way the petals seem to be neatly arranged in tight, orderly rows around the center. The petals themselves have a distinctive form, with gently pointed tips, adding an elegant, almost regal aesthetic to the overall appearance of the flower. They are lush and plush, with a layered look that gives the blooms a textured, ruffled effect, enhancing the depth and dimension of each individual flower head. As a member of the dahlia family, 'Lemon Elegans' shares the characteristic bold, bright presence associated with these blooms, but stands out with its particularly soft and inviting coloration. The foliage of this plant is deep green, forming a lush backdrop that makes the yellow petals even more striking. The leaves are typically broad and somewhat serrated at the edges, attached to sturdy stems which support the weight of the flowers gracefully. 'Lemon Elegans' is ideal for adding a splash of long-lasting color to borders, beds, and as a focal point in floral arrangements, where its sunny disposition can be fully appreciated. The plant exemplifies the beauty and diversity of dahlias, offering gardeners a touch of elegance with its delightful, lemony blooms.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' (S-c)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. In general, consumption of dahlia parts, including Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans', does not result in poisoning or produce harmful symptoms. Therefore, incidents of human poisoning by dahlias are extremely rare, and the plant is largely regarded as safe around adults and children when it comes to toxicity concerns.
To pets
Dahlias are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Consuming parts of Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' should not cause poisoning or result in severe symptoms. While the dahlias are not known to be poisonous, ingestion of large amounts of plant material can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the fibrous nature of the plant. Pets may experience mild vomiting or diarrhea if they consume significant quantities of dahlia plant matter.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The bright blooms of the Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, helping to pollinate the garden.
- Vibrant Color: Its lemon-yellow petals add a splash of vibrant color to any garden or floral arrangement.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlias have a long flowering season, often from midsummer until the first frosts, providing long-lasting garden interest.
- Easy to Grow: With the right conditions, they are relatively easy to grow, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Cut Flowers: They make excellent cut flowers with a long vase life, perfect for home decoration or gifting.
- Garden Design: Their structured shape and height can provide an architectural element to garden design.
- Breeding Potential: Dahlia enthusiasts often use varieties like 'Lemon Elegans' for breeding new cultivars.
- Decorative Tuberous Roots: The tubers can be stored during winter and replanted, offering decorative potential for multiple seasons.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Fabric Dye: The petals of the Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' can be used to produce a range of yellow hues in natural fabric dye processes, contributing to the art of eco-friendly textile coloring.
- Garden Pest Control: Planting Dahlias in the garden can help to attract predatory insects that feed on common garden pests, effectively reducing the need for chemical insecticides.
- Botanical Art: The vibrant yellow petals of the Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' are often used to create stunning botanical artwork, including pressed flower arrangements and potpourri.
- Photographic Subjects: These flowers are popular subjects for photographers, both amateur and professional, due to their symmetrical beauty and striking colors.
- Floating Decorations: The blooms can be floated in bowls of water to create elegant table centerpieces for weddings and other events.
- Culinary Garnishes: Although not commonly consumed, the petals of certain dahlia varieties are edible and can be used to add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Flower Shows: 'Lemon Elegans' is often entered into flower shows and horticultural competitions, where its form and coloring can be appreciated by plant enthusiasts.
- Science and Education: Dahlias, including 'Lemon Elegans', are used as educational tools to demonstrate plant biology, hybridization, and the principles of horticulture to students and gardening clubs.
- Bird Attraction: Dahlias can attract hummingbirds and other nectar-loving birds to a garden, thus supporting local wildlife and promoting biodiversity.
- Ice Cubes: Petals of the Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' can be frozen into ice cubes to create visually stunning additions to cold beverages for special occasions.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias, with their vibrant blooms and variety of colors, are often used in Feng Shui to introduce yang energy into a space, symbolizing new opportunities, growth, and positive change. The bright yellow hue of 'Lemon Elegans' can specifically be used to activate wealth and abundance, often recommended to be placed in the wealth corner of a home or garden (which is the southeast area according to the Bagua map) to energize prosperity.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Commitment and Bond That Lasts Forever: The dahlia, with its wide array of colors and full-bodied bloom, represents a lasting bond and commitment between two people, either in a romantic or platonic sense.
- Elegance and Dignity: Especially when referring to 'Lemon Elegans', the soft yellow hue and elegant form convey a sense of grace and dignity, often associated with a refined presence or gesture.
- Change and Positive Life Changes: Dahlias are symbols of change and variety, with 'Lemon Elegans' embodying the sunny outlook on transformation and embracing new adventures.
- Inspiration and Creativity: The intricate petals and vibrant colors of the dahlia inspire artistic creation and creative thinking.
- Inner Strength: The sturdy stems and resilient nature of the dahlia symbolize an individual’s ability to stand strong in their personal convictions and overcome challenges.
- Wealth and Prosperity: In some traditions, dahlias are associated with wealth and prosperity, their lush blooms symbolizing an abundance of financial opportunities or success.
WaterDahlias, including 'Lemon Elegans', prefer consistent moisture but do not tolerate soggy soil. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water each time, which equates to approximately 0.5 to 1 gallons for outdoor plants, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, watering frequency should be increased to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Ensure the water is applied directly to the soil, not the foliage, to avoid disease. In pots, water until you see it running out of the drainage holes, which ensures the entire root ball has been saturated.
LightDahlia 'Lemon Elegans' thrives in full sun conditions, requiring at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. The best spot for these plants is in an area where they can receive unfiltered, direct sunlight for the majority of the day, ideally in a south or west-facing garden.
TemperatureDahlia 'Lemon Elegans' grows best in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimum temperatures of 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night and maximum temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, though prolonged heat can stress the plant. The ideal growing conditions for dahlias are warm days and cooler nights.
PruningPrune the Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' to encourage bushier growth, larger blooms, and to maintain a tidy appearance. Pinch out the growing tips of young plants when they are about 16 inches tall to promote branching. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. The best time for heavy pruning is early to mid-season before blooming begins in earnest.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for growing Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' is a well-draining, fertile loam with added organic matter like compost or peat moss. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 to 7.0. Regular fertilization during the growing season will promote vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
RepottingDahlias, including Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans', generally do not need to be repotted if grown in the ground. For potted plants, repot every one to two years to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive in outdoor environments where humidity is natural and not too high, as excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, consistent moisture, and good airflow for indoor dahlias.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil in a sunny spot and stake stems.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' begins with the germination of tubers or seeds planted after the last frost when the soil has warmed sufficiently. The plant swiftly grows foliage and stems, reaching maturity when the first buds appear and then bloom into the characteristic yellow flowers of this cultivar. The blooming period extends from midsummer until the first fall frost, during which dahlias can be deadheaded to encourage continued flowering. As the weather cools, the plant's growth slows down, and it enters a dormancy phase, during which the tubers can be left in the ground in warmer climates or dug up and stored in cooler regions to prevent frost damage. In spring, the stored tubers can be replanted, or new seeds can be sown to start the cycle anew. Throughout their lifecycle, dahlias require regular watering, sunlight, and occasionally need staking to support the heavy blooms.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method for propagating Dahlia 'Lemon Elegans' is through division of tubers, which is best done in the spring when the plants are beginning to sprout. Gardeners should first carefully lift the clumps of tubers from the ground after the foliage has been killed by frost and the tubers have been allowed to dry for a few days. Each tuber or clump should have at least one eye, which is a small bump or swelling that will grow into the new plant's stem. Cut the tubers into sections with a sharp, clean knife, making sure each section has at least one eye. Dust the cut surfaces with a fungicide to prevent rot, then plant the tuber pieces about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow each plant ample room to grow.
