Dahlia Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' (PBR) (S-c)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' is a remarkable plant known for its showy and vibrant flowers. Its blossoms are multi-colored, mainly featuring a blend of pink and orange hues with whimsical streaks and gradients that could remind one of the colors of a sunset. The petals have a decorative, slightly ruffled or wavy edge, which gives a fuller appearance to the flower heads. These flowers are double blooms, meaning they have multiple layers of petals which radiate from the center in a lush, intricate pattern that appeals to the eye. The plant itself is sturdy with upright stems, green foliage that provides a contrasting backdrop to the brilliant flowers. The leaves are typically bright green with a shape that may range from ovate to lanceolate, and they might have a serrated edge, but this does not distract from the stunning blooms that are the true star of the plant. The Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' makes a bold statement in any garden with its flamboyant blooms that can attract admirers from afar, making it a popular plant among garden enthusiasts looking to add a splash of color to their outdoor spaces.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Melody Gipsy Dahlia, Gipsy Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. Generally, ingesting dahlias does not cause poisoning or result in severe symptoms. However, as with many plants, it's advisable not to consume parts of ornamental plants due to the potential for mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
To pets
Dahlias are not known to be toxic to pets. Ingesting dahlias typically does not lead to poisoning in animals. While eating dahlias is unlikely to cause more than mild gastrointestinal upset if anything at all, it is still recommended to prevent pets from ingesting ornamental plants because individual reactions can vary, and some plants might have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals which could be harmful.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
1 foot 6 inches (45 cm)
Spread
1 foot 6 inches (45 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Coloration: Dahlias are known for their striking colors, and the 'Melody Gipsy' is no exception, adding a splash of color to any garden.
- Long Blooming Season: This variety has a lengthy flowering period, providing consistent beauty throughout the growing season.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Excellent for Cut Flowers: The blossoms of Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' make for stunning cut flower arrangements with their long-lasting nature.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are generally easy to cultivate, making them suitable for gardeners of various skill levels.
- Various Landscape Uses: They can be used in borders, beds, and containers, offering versatility in garden design.
- Can Be Grown in Different Climates: Dahlias can thrive in many climates with the appropriate care, making them widely adaptable.
- Seasonal Focal Point: Due to their impressive size and vibrant blooms, they often serve as a focal point in seasonal garden displays.
- Propagational Opportunities: 'Melody Gipsy' can be propagated through division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection economically.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' with its vivid colors serves as a striking subject or background in floral photography.
- Educational Tool: In horticultural programs, this variety can be used to teach hybridization and plant genetics due to its distinct characteristics.
- Natural Dye: The petals of the dahlia can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or art projects.
- Culinary Decoration: Petals of the Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' can be used as an edible garnish for salads and desserts, adding a splash of color.
- Art Inspiration: The unique patterns and colors can inspire artists for paintings, textiles, and other crafts.
- Companion Planting: Dahlias can be planted in vegetable gardens to add color and attract pollinators which are beneficial for crops.
- Flower Arranging Classes: Its stems and flowers are used for teaching flower arrangement techniques due to their structure and longevity.
- Homestead Indicator: Dahlias can be planted to mark the end of one's property or the entryway to a homestead, thanks to their size and attractiveness.
- Memory Aid: The dahlia's presence in a garden can serve as a mnemonic device for gardeners to remember planting or maintenance schedules for other plants.
- Seasonal Festivities: Due to its late-summer to fall blooming period, the dahlia is suitable for use in decorations for autumn events and celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not typically referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice, so there are no specific guidelines for using Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' based on Feng Shui principles.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia Melody Gipsy, with its large, intricate flowers, represents elegance and dignity, symbolizing sophistication and a graceful presence in any setting.
- Change and Variety: With the diverse color patterns and shapes among dahlias, this variety reflects change and diversity, often used to represent a spirit of adventure.
- Commitment and Bond: Because dahlias bloom for extended periods, they are often associated with commitment and a lasting bond, perfect for signaling long-term relationships and connections.
- Inner Strength: The robust nature of dahlias, which allows them to bloom under various conditions, mirrors the human qualities of resilience and inner strength.
- Creativity: The distinctive, vividly colored petals of the Dahlia Melody Gipsy hint at creativity and inspiration, making it a symbol for those who engage in creative pursuits.
WaterDahlia 'Melody Gipsy' should be watered regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not overly saturated. During the active growing season, water the plant deeply once or twice weekly, applying about 1 to 2 gallons of water each time depending on the size of the plant and the weather conditions. It's crucial to avoid waterlogging as this can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil has good drainage. During the cooler months or when the plant is not actively growing, reduce watering frequency to prevent the tubers from rotting.
LightDahlias like 'Melody Gipsy' thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and bloom production. The best spot for planting 'Melody Gipsy' would be an area that receives unobstructed sunlight throughout the day. If grown in too much shade, the plant may produce fewer flowers and have a leggier growth habit.
Temperature'Melody Gipsy' Dahlia prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for ideal growth. The plant can survive temperatures down to about 20°F, but tubers must be protected or lifted from the ground in regions with cold winters. Conversely, if the temperature rises above 85°F, dahlias may experience stress, and providing some afternoon shade can be beneficial.
PruningPruning Dahlias like 'Melody Gipsy' promotes bushier growth and better blooms. Pinch back the main stem when the plant reaches 12 inches in height to encourage branching. Throughout the season, remove deadflowers, and any damaged or diseased stems to maintain plant health and appearance. The best time for heavy pruning is late winter or early spring, just before new growth starts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with abundant organic matter. For Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy', mix equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage. A soil pH near neutral, ranging from 6.5 to 7.0, is ideal for these blooms to thrive.
RepottingDahlias like 'Melody Gipsy' should be repotted once a year, ideally in the spring just before the new growth begins. As tuberous plants, they benefit from fresh soil to provide nutrients for the growing season.
Humidity & MistingDahlias such as 'Melody Gipsy' are not particularly humidity-sensitive but thrive best in moderate conditions. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60%, which is typical of many outdoor environments during their growing season.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, rich soil, and ample space for tuber growth.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, consistent moisture, and space to grow.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Melody Gipsy' (S-c), commonly known as the Melody Gipsy Dahlia, begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in fertile, well-drained soil after the last frost of spring. The tuber sprouts and a small shoot pushes through the soil, quickly developing into a sturdy stem with foliage. As the plant matures, it develops multiple branching stems that bear lush, serrated leaves, creating a full, bushy appearance. Throughout the summer, Melody Gipsy Dahlias produce vibrant, spiky flowers that range in color, attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, if deadheaded regularly, the plant will continue to produce blooms until the first frost. As winter approaches, the plant enters dormancy; the foliage dies back, and the tubers can be dug up, stored, and overwintered for replanting the next spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
Propogation: The Dahlia 'Melody Gipsy' is typically propagated through division of tubers, which is the most popular method for propagating these plants. This is ideally done in the spring when the soil has warmed up to at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius) and all danger of frost has passed. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuber clumps from the ground and gently brush off any soil. Look for the swollen tubers that have at least one eye, which is a small bump or bud that will grow into the new plant. Using a clean, sharp knife, slice the tuber into sections, ensuring each piece has at least one eye. Let the cut surfaces dry for a day or two to form a callus, which helps prevent rot. Finally, plant the divisions about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to give each new plant room to grow.
