Dahlia Dahlia 'Maldiva' (D)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Maldiva' is a cultivar known for its striking flowers which take center stage in any garden setting. The blossoms are characterized by their pinnate petals which often display a gradient of hues, ranging from the softest lavenders to deeper purple tones, sometimes accented with a hint of white. The flowers are large and showy, commanding attention with their bold form and vibrant coloration. Aside from the stunning flowers, the foliage of the Dahlia 'Maldiva' provides a lush backdrop with its deep green leaves. These leaves typically have serrated edges, contributing to the overall texture of the plant. The leaves are arranged in an aesthetically pleasing way, creating an attractive foil for the blooms. Stems are sturdy and hold the flowers aloft, making them excellent candidates for cutting gardens as well as for backdrops in mixed borders. The overall appearance of Dahlia 'Maldiva' is one of grandeur and floriferous abundance, making it a prized selection for gardeners looking to add a dramatic flair to their floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Georgina
Common names
Dahlia 'Maldiva'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of dahlia poisoning in humans, which includes Dahlia 'Maldiva'. Therefore, ingestion of dahlias typically does not lead to any poisoning symptoms. However, with any plant consumption, individuals with sensitivities or allergies may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. It is always best to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential pesticide application and the lack of information on their edibility and effects.
To pets
Dahlias, including Dahlia 'Maldiva', are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Consumption of the plant is unlikely to result in any serious poisoning symptoms. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion can sometimes cause mild gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting or diarrhea in pets, particularly if consumed in large quantities or if the pet has a sensitive stomach.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlia 'Maldiva' offers vibrant and colorful flowers that enhance the visual beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: This plant comes in a range of colors, providing options to create diverse and attractive floral displays.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are known for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long Blooming Season: With a lengthy blooming period from mid-summer to fall, it offers a long-lasting display of color.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are ideal for cut flower arrangements, bringing indoor decoration possibilities.
- Ease of Care: Dahlias are relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them suitable for gardeners of various skill levels.
- Breeding and Hybridization: This plant is popular for breeding, allowing for the development of new varieties.
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 'Maldiva' can be used for natural dyeing; their petals, especially the deep red, pink, or purple varieties, can give fabrics a vibrant color.
- The geometric patterns of dahlia flowers make them a popular choice as a study subject for botanical art and photography.
- Dahlia flowers can serve as a muse for fashion designers, who may mimic their vibrant colors and intricate petal formations in their designs.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be used by children or educators for passing simple science experiments that demonstrate capillary action or water uptake in plants.
- Dahlias can be implemented into culinary endeavors as a garnish, providing an edible and colorful addition to upscale dishes.
- These plants are beneficial for educational purposes, as observing their growth from tubers to blooms can teach about plant life cycles.
- In craft projects, dahlia flowers and petals can be used to create natural jewelry, like pressed flower pendants or earrings.
- Dahlias can be part of composite flower arrangements used in floral art competitions, demonstrating skills in balance, proportion, and color theory.
- The structural beauty of dahlias can inspire architectural design, lending their form to elements like lampshades or decorative screens.
- In a terrace or rooftop garden, dahlias add not only aesthetic value but also create private, natural nooks within urban environments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: With its sophisticated form and stunning beauty, the Dahlia 'Maldiva' symbolizes elegance and dignity, often used to represent one’s noble grace and high values.
- Change and Diversity: Given the wide variety of colors and shapes in dahlias, they are often associated with change and diversity, reflecting the diversity of the natural world.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are also symbolic of a lasting bond and commitment between two people, making them popular in floral arrangements for weddings or anniversaries.
- Creative Expression: The intricate petals and bright colors of the Dahlia 'Maldiva' can signify a burst of creativity and the inspiration to follow artistic pursuits.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias suggest a strength that lies within, mirroring the flower’s ability to bloom despite challenging conditions.
WaterDahlias prefer even moisture and should be watered deeply 2-3 times per week, amounting to about an inch of water per week. Depending on the soil and weather conditions, you may need to adjust the frequency. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent fungal diseases. It's better to water in the morning to allow the plant to dry off before cooler evening temperatures set in. Do not let the soil dry out completely, but also avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
LightDahlias thrive in a place where they can receive full sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. They prefer bright, direct light to produce their best growth and flowering. However, in very hot climates, dahlias can benefit from light afternoon shade to protect them from scorching.
TemperatureDahlias grow best in temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid planting them outside until the risk of frost has passed, as they are sensitive to cold and will not survive freezing temperatures. Dahlias can tolerate a maximum temperature up to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit; beyond that, they may need protection from heat stress.
PruningPruning dahlias is essential to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about a foot tall and remove any lateral buds to promote larger central flowers. Deadheading, or removing spent blooms, should be done consistently throughout the blooming season to maintain a tidy appearance and encourage continued flowering. The best time for major pruning is early in the growing season; regular maintenance should continue until the end of the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in a fertile, well-draining soil mix with a pH around 6.5 to 7.0. A mixture of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or sand can create an ideal growing environment for Dahlia 'Maldiva'.
RepottingDahlias, including Dahlia 'Maldiva', generally do not need to be repotted often as they are typically grown as annuals. They should be planted anew each spring after the last frost date has passed.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Maldiva' prefers moderate humidity levels; however, they are not overly sensitive to humidity variations as long as they are well-watered and have good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlia 'Maldiva' in bright, indirect light and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Plant Dahlia 'Maldiva' in full sun after frost and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe Dahlia 'Maldiva' begins its life as a tuber, which is typically planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil is warm. It sprouts and grows into a bushy plant, with the formation of flower buds being an important developmental stage. The plant blooms in mid to late summer, often continuing until the first frost in fall, with blossoms that can range from small to large magnificent displays, depending on the variety. After the flowering period, the plant enters a state of senescence as temperatures drop, wherein the above-ground growth begins to wither. Before the onset of winter, the tubers are usually dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place to overwinter. The following spring, the stored tubers are replanted, completing the cycle and beginning a new growth season for the Dahlia 'Maldiva'.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Maldiva', commonly known as the Dahlia, is typically propagated through division, which is the most popular method for this plant. Division should be done in the spring, after the danger of frost has passed and when the soil is warm enough to encourage growth, usually when the soil temperature reaches about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 15.6 degrees Celsius). To propagate by division, gardeners should carefully lift the tubers from the ground after the foliage has died back, and gently brush off the soil. The tubers, which are the swollen storage organs of the Dahlia, should be cut into sections ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth will emerge. Once divided, the tuber sections can be replanted immediately, leaving about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) between plants to allow for growth and air circulation. It's essential to plant the tubers at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), depending on their size, with the eye facing upwards. Proper care after planting, including regular watering and feeding, will help ensure the successful establishment and growth of the new Dahlia plants.
