Dahlia Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne' (D)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne' is a horticulturally bred variety known for its striking visual appeal. This plant produces large, showy flowers characterized by their unique coloring and form. The petals have a remarkable color gradient that usually transitions from a lighter shade at the center to a deeper, more vivid hue towards the edges, often in shades of pink, purple, or red. The petals are arranged in a tight, orderly pattern that gives the bloom a full, almost spherical shape. Each flower head is comprised of numerous individual petals that can be either pointed or rounded at the tips, depending on the specific cultivar. The foliage of Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne' is typically lush and green, providing a complementary backdrop to the bright floral display. The leaves are compound, with several leaflets arranged along a central stem, and they often have serrated or slightly jagged edges. Throughout the blooming season, the plant continues to produce new flowers, which can be deadheaded to encourage further blooming and maintain the plant's attractive appearance. As a cultivated variety of dahlia, 'Marston Suzanne' is prized for its ornamental flowers which can be used both in garden beds and as cut flowers for arrangements, adding elegance and a splash of color to any setting. The plant's visual contribution to a garden is one of refined beauty and vibrancy, with a focus on the magnificent blooms that capture the eye from a distance.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. Generally, they do not pose a risk if touched or ingested. However, it is always best to avoid eating ornamental plants, as they are not intended for consumption.
To pets
Dahlias are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs. They should not cause any harm if your pets happen to ingest them. However, it's always best practice to prevent pets from eating plants as a precaution and to keep their diet restricted to pet-safe foods.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlias like 'Marston Suzanne' offer striking beauty and vibrant colors that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or landscape.
- Variety of Uses: Suitable for use in borders, flower beds, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements due to their large, showy blooms.
- Pollinator Attraction: Dahlias can attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity and a healthy garden ecosystem.
- Long Blooming Period: Dahlias have a lengthy blooming season, from mid-summer to the first frost, providing color and interest for an extended period.
- Decorative Seed Heads: After blooming, dahlias produce decorative seed heads which can add interest to the garden even when the flowering period is over.
- Easy to Grow: With proper care, including adequate sunlight and good drainage, dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate and maintain.
- Propagatable: Dahlia tubers can be divided in the spring to create new plants, which is an economical way to expand your garden.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia tubers can be used to produce a natural dye for textiles; the color produced can range from earthy tones to more vibrant hues depending on the concentration and processing.
- With their intricate petal patterns and vibrant colors, dahlias like 'Marston Suzanne' can be pressed and included in ornamental crafts such as resin jewelry or bookmark creation.
- Dahlia flowers can add an aesthetic touch to stationary by being incorporated into handmade paper, giving it a unique and artistic flair.
- In certain regions, dahlia petals are added to dishes and desserts for a splash of color, although they are not widely recognized as a traditional food source.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be utilized in small-scale construction of model houses or for crafting eco-friendly drinking straws after proper cleaning and drying.
- The striking appearance of dahlias makes them suitable for use in floral photography and macro photography workshops focused on capturing the beauty of nature in detail.
- Dahlias can serve as natural indicators of seasonal changes in educational and ecological studies since their blooming period is sensitive to climate and daylight duration.
- 'Marston Suzanne' dahlias can be employed in landscaping to specifically attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, assisting in the conservation of these species.
- During thematic celebrations or festivals, dahlias can be used for creating elaborate floral arrangements and floats that require large, colorful blossoms.
- As a biological pest control method, certain parts of the dahlia plant can be used to repel nematodes when planted in rotation with vegetable crops.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not commonly associated with Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Diversity and Variety: The Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne', like other dahlias, comes in a multitude of colors and forms, symbolizing the rich tapestry of human personalities and cultures.
- Elegance and Dignity: With its sophisticated and striking blooms, the dahlia represents poise and a dignified presence.
- Commitment and Bond: Due to their intricate petals and long-lasting nature, dahlias can symbolize a lasting commitment and an everlasting bond between individuals.
- Change and Transition: Since dahlias bloom from midsummer to first frost, they are often associated with change and the ability to thrive despite challenges.
- Warning and Betrayal: In the Victorian language of flowers, dahlias were sometimes tied to instability or dishonesty, perhaps because of their dazzling variety that can be overwhelming.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Marston Suzanne', require consistent moisture and should be watered two to three times a week. The actual frequency depends on weather conditions; they need more water in dry, hot periods and less when it's cool or rainy. When watering, soak the soil to a depth of several inches. If the dahlia is in a container, water until you see excess water drain from the bottom. It's best to use about 1-2 gallons of water per plant during each watering session, depending on the size of the plant and the environmental conditions.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight, so the 'Marston Suzanne' should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Avoid spots that are shaded for a significant part of the day. Good sunlight is crucial for the plant to develop strong stems and vibrant blooms.
TemperatureThe 'Marston Suzanne' dahlia prefers temperatures between 60°F to 75°F for optimal growth. Dahlias can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F at night and can tolerate maximum temperatures up to around 90°F. Avoid planting them in locations where temperatures frequently drop below 50°F or rise above 90°F for prolonged periods, as extreme temperatures can negatively impact the plant's health and blooming ability.
PruningPruning dahlias like 'Marston Suzanne' encourages strong stem growth and more prolific flowering. Pinch out the growing tip when the plant is about a foot tall to promote bushiness. Throughout the season, remove any dead or damaged stems and spent flowers to maintain plant vigor and encourage continuous blooming. Pruning is most beneficial before and during the blooming period.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias require well-draining soil with rich organic matter; a mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite is ideal. The best soil pH for Dahlias is slightly acidic, around 6.5.
RepottingDahlias grown in pots should ideally be repotted every year during their dormant season, usually in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingDahlias thrive in moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable; avoid overly humid conditions to prevent fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, keep soil moist, and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, with rich soil, and provide ample space.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycle'Marston Suzanne' Dahlia (Dahlia pinnata) begins its life as a dormant tuber, which typically sprouts in the warmth of late spring as soil temperatures rise. The sprouted tuber develops into a young plant, producing a stalk and foliage as it matures. During the growing season, it progresses to the flowering stage, where it produces vibrant blooms that may continue from mid-summer until the first frost. The plant then enters a period of senescence as temperatures drop in autumn, with the above-ground growth dying back and the plant retreating to its tuberous state. To ensure the tuber survives, it is often dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place during the winter months. In the following spring, the cycle can recommence when the stored tuber is replanted after the last frost has passed.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Marston Suzanne', commonly referred to as Dahlia, is most effectively propagated through the division of its tubers, which is ideally done in the spring when the danger of frost has passed. To divide Dahlia tubers, first, the clumps should be carefully lifted from the ground once the foliage has died back after frost. After cleaning off excess soil, look for the natural division points where the tubers can be separated, ensuring each section has at least one eye, or growth point. Cuts should be made cleanly with a sharp knife, and the freshly divided tubers can be treated with a fungicide to prevent rotting, before being planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) deep in well-drained soil, spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) apart, allowing adequate room for growth. This method is preferred for its simplicity and effectiveness in producing a true-to-type Dahlia plant, ready to flourish in the upcoming growing season.
