Dahlia Dahlia 'Maiko Girl' (DblO)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Maiko Girl' features a stunning display of double blooms characterized by an array of vibrant colors that can include a mix of pinks, reds, and even purples. The flower heads are full and rounded, formed by numerous layers of petals that often create a ruffled or tufted appearance. These petals can sometimes display a gradient of hues, with deeper colors at the base that lighten toward the tips, giving each bloom a unique and striking look. The foliage of this plant is typically a lush green, which serves as a beautiful backdrop to the vivid flowers. Adding to its appeal, the stems of the Dahlia 'Maiko Girl' are sturdy, allowing the flamboyant blooms to stand out prominently within any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia, Georgina
Common names
Dahlia 'Maiko Girl' (DblO)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Maiko Girl' variety, are generally not considered toxic to humans. There is no widely recognized risk of serious poisoning from ingesting dahlias. However, as with any non-food plant, individual reactions can vary, and it is always best to avoid eating ornamental plants due to the potential for mild stomach upset or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the 'Maiko Girl', are not known to be toxic to pets. They are not listed by the ASPCA as toxic to dogs, cats, or other pets. However, ingestion of any non-food plant can potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of dahlia or is showing symptoms of distress, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife 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
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Decorative Appeal: 'Maiko Girl' Dahlias provide vibrant colors and full, eye-catching blooms that enhance any garden aesthetic.
- Versatility in Landscaping: Their diverse forms and sizes make them suitable for beds, borders, and containers, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Pollinator Attraction: These plants attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Extended Blooming Season: They have a long flowering period from midsummer to the first frosts, offering enduring beauty.
- Cut Flower Use: Dahlias are excellent for cutting gardens and provide long-lasting flowers for bouquets and arrangements.
- Garden Diversity: Incorporating different varieties of Dahlias adds a rich array of textures and shapes to a garden space.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated through division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection and share with others.
- Cultural Significance: Dahlias have a rich history and are celebrated in festivals and shows, which can add meaning to their cultivation.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias like 'Maiko Girl' can be used in plant dye production, where the petals and other parts provide natural dyes for fabrics and textiles.
- They serve as a food source for pollinators such as butterflies and bees, helping to maintain the health and biodiversity of ecosystems.
- Their sturdy stems can be used as a natural support for other, more delicate plants in mixed flower arrangements or in the garden.
- Dahlia tubers can be used in creating educational opportunities in botanical gardens for people to learn about plant propagation through tubers.
- Their bright and varied colors are often used in color therapy and psychological wellness practices to boost mood and create an atmosphere of happiness.
- Dahlia blooms are sometimes used in art and photography as a subject due to their complex geometry and vivid colors.
- Crafted dahlia petals can be used in eco-friendly confetti or potpourri, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials.
- In some cultures, dahlia flowers are used in ceremonial garlands or decorations during festivals and celebrations.
- Dahlia petals can be pressed and preserved in glass frames or books as a method of capturing and enjoying their beauty year-round.
- They can be utilized in floriculture research to study hybridization and breeding techniques for creating new varieties of flowers.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Inner Strength - Dahlias, with their sturdy stems and vibrant blooms, often symbolize the ability to stand gracefully under pressure and to succeed despite challenges.
- Dignity - The Dahlia 'Maiko Girl''s elegant appearance is associated with poise and self-respect, reflecting a person's dignity in their conduct and manner.
- Change and Variety - Given the vast array of colors and forms of Dahlia flowers, they frequently represent diversity, change, and variety in life.
- Creative Expression - The unique and elaborate petals of the Dahlia represent an individual's boldness and creativity in expressing themselves.
- Commitment and Bond That Lasts Forever - With their long blooming season, Dahlias are often seen as symbols of long-term commitment and a bond that endures despite challenges.
- Elegance and Sophistication - The sophisticated look of the Dahlia, especially a cultivar like 'Maiko Girl', is reminiscent of high-class and refined tastes.
- Warning and Betrayal - In contrast to their positive meanings, Dahlias can also convey a sense of betrayal or instability, as they were once considered a warning of an impending betrayal.
WaterDahlias require regular watering, especially during dry spells, to promote lush growth and vibrant blooms. For your 'Maiko Girl' Dahlia, aim to water deeply 2 to 3 times per week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons per plant per watering session. This will depend on soil type and weather conditions; sandy soils will require more frequent watering than clay soils. Ensure you water the soil directly to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. During particularly hot spells, you may need to increase watering frequency, but always check the soil moisture first to avoid overwatering.
LightDahlias, including the 'Maiko Girl', flourish in a spot that receives full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They can tolerate some light shade, but too much shade can lead to weak stems and fewer flowers. The ideal location would be one where they are protected from strong afternoon sun, which can sometimes be too intense, especially in very hot climates.
TemperatureDahlias, including 'Maiko Girl', grow best in mild to warm conditions with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F but should be protected from frost, which can be detrimental. Ideal growing temperatures are crucial during the blooming period to ensure healthy flower development. In zones where the winter temperature drops below 20°F, dahlia tubers should be dug up and stored indoors.
PruningPruning, sometimes referred to as "deadheading," for Dahlias like 'Maiko Girl' is essential to encourage more blooms and maintain plant vigor. Cut off the spent flowers just above the next set of leaves to stimulate further blooming. For optimal plant health, periodically cut back any weak or diseased stems. Regular pruning should be done throughout the blooming season, which typically lasts until the first frost.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Maiko Girl' thrives best in a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Incorporate compost and peat moss to enhance soil structure and fertility.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Maiko Girl' variety, typically need to be repotted every year after the last frost, as they grow from tubers that can become crowded.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Maiko Girl' prefer moderate humidity levels; ensure good air circulation around the plant to maintain optimal conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, stake stems, and maintain consistent watering for indoor Dahlias.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, rich soil, and provide stakes for Dahlia 'Maiko Girl'.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Maiko Girl' begins its life as a tuber planted in the spring after the last frost. It germinates and grows into a young plant, with initial leaves and stem developing within a few weeks. As it matures through the growing season, the Dahlia 'Maiko Girl' produces lush foliage and begins to bud. The plant's flowers bloom in midsummer to fall, showcasing its double-petaled blossoms that are characteristic of this variety. After flowering, as the weather cools and the first frost approaches, the plant's aerial parts die back, while the tuber underground goes dormant through the winter. In the following spring, the tuber can be divided and replanted to start the cycle anew, or it will sprout again if it was left in the ground, assuming the soil conditions and climate are suitable for its survival.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Dahlia 'Maiko Girl', like other dahlias, is commonly propagated through division of tubers, which is usually performed in the spring just before planting. The tuber clumps are carefully divided with a sharp knife or spade to ensure that each section has at least one eye—a bud— from which a new shoot can emerge. The divisions are then allowed to dry for a few days to allow the cut surfaces to callous over, which helps prevent rot. These divided tubers are then planted about 4 to 6 inches (approximately 10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eye pointing upward. Once the risk of frost has passed, the new plants will grow and can be expected to flower in the same season. This method is especially favored for its simplicity and the ability to maintain the genetic identity of the cultivar.
