Dahlia 'Nicola Jane' (Pom)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Nicola Jane' (Pom) is noted for its distinctive and decorative blooms. This variety of Dahlia features pompom-like flowers, which are tightly packed with layers of small, rounded petals. The petals curve inward, creating a spherical or globe-like shape characteristic of the Pompon Dahlia class. The individual blossoms typically exhibit a soft and intricate appearance, with a lush texture that entices the viewer to reach out and touch them. The color of 'Nicola Jane' flowers is often a harmonious mix, presenting pastel hues that may include shades of pink, lavender, or cream, sometimes with subtle gradients or variations in tone towards the petal edges or centers. These blossoms stand out against a backdrop of green foliage, consisting of medium to dark green leaves that are pinnately divided with pointed leaflets that have slightly serrated edges. While these flowers possess a delicate and ornamental quality, the plant itself is quite sturdy, with upright and branching stems that bear the flowers aloft. The foliage and blooms create a visually dense and abundant display, making 'Nicola Jane' a favorite among gardeners seeking to add a touch of elegance and classic beauty to their floral arrangements or garden beds. In full bloom, the Dahlias present a vibrant and eye-catching spectacle that can serve as a focal point in any garden or as a showy cut flower in bouquets and vases.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Pompon Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Nicola Jane' (Pom).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not considered toxic to humans. There are generally no adverse effects expected from touching or ingesting dahlia plants. However, as with any plant, individual allergies could cause reactions in sensitive persons, but this is not common. It is always a good practice to avoid ingesting plants that are not typically classified as food, as they may cause digestive discomfort or an unexpected allergic reaction in some individuals.
To pets
Dahlias are also not considered toxic to pets. They are generally regarded as safe for dogs, cats, and horses. While ingestion can sometimes result in mild gastrointestinal upset due to the consumption of non-food items, dahlias are not expected to cause serious poisoning or life-threatening symptoms. However, it is always advisable to keep an eye on pets and discourage them from eating ornamental plants.
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- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlia 'Nicola Jane' adds vibrant colors and a unique pompon flower shape to gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: These dahlias can be used in borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Pollinator Friendly: They attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias offer a long flowering period from mid-summer to the first frosts of autumn.
- Variety: Comes in a range of colors, allowing gardeners to choose the perfect hue to complement their garden's color scheme.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated from tubers, cuttings, or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collection.
- Improves Garden Structure: The plant's sturdy stems and vibrant blooms add height and structure to garden beds.
- Seasonal Interest: Provides late-season interest in the garden when many other plants have finished blooming.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias are often used for natural dye extraction to color fabrics. The petals of 'Nicola Jane' can produce a range of beautiful and vibrant colors.
- With their intricate petal structures, dahlias can be a tool for photographers and artists to study or capture the essence of symmetry and pattern in nature.
- The blooms can be dried and used in potpourri, offering a visually appealing mix in combination with other dried flowers and imparting a subtle fragrance.
- Dahlias can be used in educational settings as a hands-on tool for teaching children about plant biology and the lifecycle of flowers.
- The robust stems of dahlias can be used in crafting, such as making natural wreaths or as structural elements in floral displays.
- During the Victorian era, dahlias were used in flower language to express sentiments and messages that were not spoken out loud.
- Dahlia petals are sometimes used in papermaking, contributing their fibrous quality to create unique textures within handmade papers.
- The bright and diverse colors of dahlias, such as 'Nicola Jane', can influence design palettes in fields like interior design or fashion.
- These flowers are ideal for use in ceremonies such as weddings, not just for their visual appeal, but for their symbolism of commitment and bond, as dahlias are perennials that return each year.
- Culinary adventurous chefs may use dahlia petals as an edible decoration on plates, although they should always be sourced from plants that have not been treated with pesticides or other chemicals.
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: The dahlia's sophisticated shape often represents poise and a dignified beauty.
- Change and Diversity: With its wide variety of colors and forms, dahlias symbolize the diversity and changeability of life.
- Commitment and Bond: Being a perennial with a strong connection to its roots, the dahlia is often seen as a symbol of long-lasting commitment and an eternal bond.
- Creativity: The dahlia's intricate petals can represent inner strength and the ability to stand out from the crowd through creative expression.
- Warning: Some cultures see dahlias as a sign of betrayal or dishonesty, warning someone of a looming change that may not be positive.
WaterDahlias require thorough watering that reaches deep into the soil to encourage strong root growth. Water the dahlia plant once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 gallons of water each time, depending on the weather conditions and soil drainage. It is essential to avoid overhead watering to prevent disease; instead, water at the base of the plant. During peak growth in summer, especially if it's hot and dry, increase the frequency of watering. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to rot and other issues.
LightDahlias thrive best in full sunlight, blessed with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Plant your dahlia in a spot where it can enjoy the morning sun, which is less intense, providing ideal light conditions for robust growth without scorching. Ensure the plant is positioned away from buildings or trees that could cast excessive shade, as dahlia flowers might not bloom as profusely without sufficient light.
TemperatureDahlias prefer warm conditions, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can tolerate a maximum temperature of up to around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but should not be exposed to freezing conditions. Ideally, the dahlia should be planted when soil temperatures have consistently reached about 60 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring a suitable growing environment free from the risk of frost.
PruningPruning dahlias is vital for encouraging better airflow, which reduces disease risk, and for promoting larger blooms. Prune by pinching or cutting off the top of the main stem when the plant is about a foot tall to encourage bushiness. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to stimulate continuous blooming. The best time for major pruning is early in the growing season before blooming commences and throughout as needed to maintain plant health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Dahlias is a well-draining, fertile loam with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Incorporate compost or aged manure and a balanced fertilizer into the planting area to provide the necessary nutrients and improve soil structure.
RepottingDahlias should be repotted annually, usually in early spring before new growth begins. After the first frost in autumn, dig up the tubers, store them during winter, and replant them the next season for optimal growth.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels, so aim for about 40-60% humidity which is often naturally provided in outdoor environments without the need for additional control measures.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, good air circulation, and room to grow.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil, provide space, and stake stems.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Nicola Jane' (Pom Pom Dahlia) begins when a tuber is planted in the soil after the threat of frost has passed, and the soil has warmed. The tuber will sprout and produce a stem, leaves, and roots as it establishes itself. The plant then enters a period of vegetative growth, during which it develops a larger foliage mass in preparation for flowering. Flowering occurs in the summer to fall, where the plant produces its distinctive round, fluffy flowers that come in various colors. After flowering, as temperatures cool, the plant will begin to die back and can be cut down to the soil level; the tuber should be dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place over winter in colder climates. The following spring, the tuber can be replanted, thus restarting the annual lifecycle of the Pom Pom Dahlia.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Nicola Jane', known as Pompon Dahlias due to their small, spherical flower shape, is commonly propagated through division of tubers. This process is best performed in the spring, just when the new shoots are starting to emerge from the tubers, typically after the danger of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach about 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius). To propagate these dahlias, carefully dig up the tubers and divide them with a clean, sharp knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, or growth point, from which new shoots will emerge. The cut surfaces should be allowed to dry and callous over for a day or two, to prevent rot, before replanting. Plant the tuber sections about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-drained soil, and water sparingly until growth appears as overwatering can cause tubers to rot.
