Dahlia Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' (S-c)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' is a strikingly attractive plant known for its elaborate blooms that are bound to catch the eye in any garden display. The flowers exhibit a blend of elegance and complexity; they typically have a layered petal structure that may remind one of a water lily due to the way the petals curve upwards and slightly inwards, giving them a somewhat tubular appearance. These petals are sumptuously colored in shades of white and pink, often with the white at the base transitioning to a soft pink towards the tips, creating a delicate gradient that enhances their ornamental appeal. The plant produces a lush green foliage backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the bright and vivacious floral display. The leaves are generally shaped with pointed tips and serrated edges, offering a verdant and robust presence that supports the visual impact of the flowers. The overall configuration of Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' contributes to its popularity in decorative gardens and among floral enthusiasts, who cherish it for its sophisticated flower form and pleasing color palette.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' (S-c).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Mayan Swan' variety, are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They are not known to contain substances that cause poisoning if ingested. Consequently, there are typically no symptoms of poisoning associated with dahlias, making them safe for planting in gardens that are accessible to children and adults. It is always a good practice, however, to avoid ingesting parts of ornamental plants as a precautionary measure.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the 'Mayan Swan' variety, are generally safe and non-toxic to pets. They do not contain harmful toxins that would cause poisoning in animals such as cats and dogs if they were to ingest the plant. Therefore, there are no expected symptoms of poisoning from dahlias. Pet owners can feel relatively safe with these flowers in their gardens, but as with any plant material, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the fiber content or from the pet not being accustomed to digesting plant material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
3-4 feet (0.91-1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: The Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' offers striking blossoms that enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: This plant produces blooms in a range of colors, providing a spectrum of options for garden color schemes.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms of the Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' are perfect for creating vibrant and long-lasting cut flower arrangements.
- Seasonal Interest: This dahlia blooms from midsummer until the first frost, offering extended seasonal interest in the garden.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are relatively easy to cultivate and can thrive in a variety of soil types, as long as they have good drainage.
- Container Gardening: This plant is suitable for container gardening, making it a versatile option for patios, balconies, and small-space gardening.
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 can be used to create a natural plant dye, offering a range of colors from pinks to oranges depending on the mordant used.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or channels for small scale irrigation purposes.
- Dried dahlia tubers are sometimes used as a substitute for wood when crafting small items like beads or buttons.
- Certain dahlia varieties produce abundant nectar and can be planted to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies to a garden.
- The vibrant blooms of dahlias can be floated in large shallow bowls as eye-catching centerpieces for events or home decor.
- When dried and pressed, dahlia flowers make decorative additions to handmade paper or can be used in scrapbooking and card making.
- Dahlia blooms can be used to add a splash of color to all-natural confetti for weddings or ceremonies that aim to be eco-friendly.
- The geometric patterns of some dahlia varieties can serve as inspiration for artists and designers in various fields, including fashion and architecture.
- Used in flower arranging classes, dahlias offer a wide range of sizes and complexity for teaching various techniques.
- The intricate petal arrangements of dahlias can be photographed and used in macro photography workshops to help students understand depth of field and composition.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' features sophisticated, swan-like blooms which are often associated with poise and refined beauty.
- Change and Transformation: Dahlias represent personal growth and change, much like the Mayan civilization, that was known for its advancements and evolution.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as gifts, dahlias can symbolize a lasting bond and a commitment to another person, reflecting the enduring nature of the flower.
- Cultural Identity: The name 'Mayan Swan' nods to the Mayan heritage, symbolizing an appreciation for culture and history.
- Unique Standpoint: With its distinctive form, the 'Mayan Swan' variety of dahlia is a symbol of standing out from the crowd and celebrating uniqueness.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply once to twice a week, providing approximately 1-2 gallons of water each time for established plants, depending on weather conditions. During the growing season, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Less frequent watering is needed when weather is cool and more frequent watering may be necessary during hot, dry periods. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and to reduce the risk of disease. In particularly hot climates, mulching can help to retain soil moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
LightDahlias thrive in a location where they receive full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. The best spot for them is in an area with direct sunlight that is not obstructed by buildings or trees. Avoid planting in areas that receive significant shade, as this can impede flower development and lead to leggy plants.
TemperatureDahlias prefer a temperate climate with temperatures ranging between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures down to about 50°F but do not fare well in frost; temperatures reaching toward freezing can damage or kill the plant. The ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights within the preferred temperature range.
PruningDahlias should be pruned to encourage bushier growth and more abundant flowers. Pinch out the growing tips when the plant is about 12-16 inches tall. Prune by cutting back the stems just above a set of leaves. This is best done during the growing season, from spring to fall, before blooms develop. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers will promote further blooming.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' is two parts garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or vermiculite to improve aeration and drainage.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Mayan Swan', should be repotted annually, usually in the spring when new growth begins. They require fresh soil each year to provide nutrients and prevent disease.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Mayan Swan' tolerate a wide range of humidity levels but prefer moderate conditions. They thrive best when the relative humidity ranges between 40% and 60%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlias in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, moderate water, and good drainage outdoors.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' begins with the germination of tubers, which sprout shoots when the soil warms in the spring. The shoots grow into sturdy stems and develop foliage, entering the vegetative growth stage. During the summer months, the plant reaches maturity and produces vibrant blooms that are characteristic of the 'Mayan Swan' cultivar. After flowering, pollination can occur, potentially resulting in seed formation if the flowers are not sterile; however, Dahlias are primarily propagated through division of tubers rather than seeds. As temperatures cool in the fall, the Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' enters a phase of dormancy; the above-ground growth dies back, and the tubers survive underground to overwinter. With the return of warmer temperatures in the next spring, the cycle begins anew with the tubers sprouting fresh growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Late Winter - Spring
Propogation: The Dahlia 'Mayan Swan' typically is best propagated during early spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy. The most popular method of propagation for dahlias, including the 'Mayan Swan', is through dividing its tubers. This process involves digging up the entire plant once the foliage has died back after the first fall frost. The clumps of tubers should be carefully separated by hand, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a growth point from which the new dahlia will sprout. The divisions can be stored in a cool, dry place over winter and planted the following spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil temperature reaches approximately 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius). This allows for each division to develop into a new, healthy plant, preserving the characteristics of the 'Mayan Swan' variety.
