Dahlia Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' is characterized by its vibrant blooms that exhibit a stunning blend of colors, typically showcasing shades of orange, yellow, and red. The petals are arranged in a geometric pattern that is both intricate and orderly, creating a captivating visual display that resembles organized flames or a sunset. Each flower head is composed of numerous petals that may have pointed or rounded tips, contributing to the fluffy, full look that dahlias are known for. These brightly colored flowers are well-formed, often displaying a symmetry that is pleasing to the eye. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' provides a lush backdrop for the vivid blossoms. Leaves are typically green, creating a striking contrast against the fiery tones of the flowers. Their shape may vary from elongated to somewhat rounded, with prominent veining that adds texture to the overall appearance of the plant. The leaves are attached along sturdy stems that provide ample support for the substantial blooms. The overall appearance of the Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' makes it a standout specimen in any garden, providing a dramatic splash of color and a source of visual interest throughout its blooming season. It's a favored choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of exuberance to their flower beds or as a focal point in floral arrangements.
About this plant
- Names
Family
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Oakwood Naranga Dahlia, Naranga Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga'
- Toxicity
To humans
Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga', commonly referred to as Dahlia, is not considered toxic to humans. While ingesting any part of this plant is not recommended and may cause discomfort, it typically does not result in serious poisoning or long-lasting consequences.
To pets
Dahlias are generally considered to be non-toxic to pets as well. However, if a pet ingests a part of a Dahlia plant, they might experience mild gastrointestinal upset with symptoms such as drooling, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually self-limiting and do not lead to serious health issues.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, enhancing biodiversity in the garden.
- Colorful Blooms: This variety showcases vibrant, colorful flowers that can add aesthetic appeal to any landscape or floral arrangement.
- Versatility: Dahlias are suitable for planting in borders, beds, and containers, offering flexibility for garden design.
- Cut Flowers: The flowers have a long vase life, making them excellent choices for fresh bouquets and indoor decoration.
- Seasonal Interest: Dahlias bloom from midsummer through fall, providing an extended display of color when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated from tubers, cuttings, or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Dye Production: The petals of Dahlias can be used to produce a wide range of dyes for fabrics, with the 'Oakwood Naranga' variety yielding shades of orange and red.
- Insect Habitat: Dahlias can be part of insectary gardens, attracting beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and hoverflies that serve as pollinators or predators of pests.
- Photography Subject: With their vibrant colors and intricate petal structures, Dahlias like 'Oakwood Naranga' are popular subjects for photographers and artists.
- Vegetative Reproduction Education: Using the tubers of Dahlias, one can educate about vegetative plant reproduction in educational settings like schools or workshops.
- Eco-friendly Confetti: Dried Dahlias petals are biodegradable and can be used as eco-friendly confetti for celebrations like weddings or parties.
- Flower Arranging Classes: 'Oakwood Naranga' Dahlias can be grown and used in flower arranging classes due to their large blooms and sturdy stems.
- Edible Flowers: Although not commonly consumed, Dahlia petals are edible and can be used to add a splash of color to salads or as a garnish on desserts.
- Themed Garden Design: Dahlias can be included in thematic garden designs that focus on specific color schemes or aesthetic concepts.
- Culinary Experiments: Dahlia tubers have been historically used as a food source, and modern culinary enthusiasts may experiment with them as a novelty starch in cooking.
- Bio-degradable Potpourri: Dried petals and other parts of the Dahlia can be used to make natural, fragrant potpourri for home decoration.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Dahlias are not specifically used in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Dahlias are not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Elegance and Dignity: The Dahlia, with its intricate petals and stunning appearance, is often associated with elegance and a dignified presence.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: With numerous varieties and vibrant colors, Dahlias represent diversity and a celebration of uniqueness.
- Commitment and Bond: Because Dahlias continue to bloom for extended periods, they are symbols of commitment and an everlasting bond between two people.
- Creativity: The dahlia’s multitude of colors and forms are suggestive of creativity and the inspiration drawn from nature's beauty.
- Change: As Dahlias bloom in various conditions, they are also emblematic of change and the ability to thrive despite challenges.
- Water
Dahlias, including the 'Oakwood Naranga,' should be watered with a focus on deep irrigation to encourage strong root development. This means watering thoroughly until the water penetrates several inches into the ground. During the growing season, dahlias typically require about 1 to 1.5 inches of water weekly, but this can vary depending on climate conditions; in very hot weather, they may need more. It's best to water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and prevent leaf wetness at night, which can lead to fungal diseases. Water the plants at their base to keep moisture off the foliage, supplying approximately 2 gallons per plant per watering session. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to avoid over-watering and root rot.
- Light
Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' thrives in a location that receives full sun, which means at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot would be one where the plant is exposed to the morning sunlight and protected from the hot afternoon sun, especially in very warm climates. However, dahlias are adaptable and can handle the heat of a full day of sun provided they receive adequate moisture.
- Temperature
Dahlias, including the 'Oakwood Naranga,' prefer moderate temperatures and thrive in conditions ranging between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of about 50°F at night, but frost can be damaging, so they should not be exposed to temperatures below this threshold. Ideal growing conditions are during the warmer months of the year; in winter, the tubers should be protected from freezing temperatures by lifting and storing them indoors if temperatures are expected to drop below 45°F.
- Pruning
Pruning dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' encourages bushier growth, more blooms, and helps maintain the plant's shape. Deadheading, or removing spent flowers, should be done consistently throughout the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering. Cut back stems to the next full set of leaves. Additionally, at the beginning of the growing season, pinch out the growing tips after the plant has reached a height of about 16 inches to promote branching. Pruning is typically not required in winter as the plant dies back, but the tubers should be lifted and stored if the climate gets too cold.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Dahlias prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A good mix would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. Organic compost can also be added to provide nutrients.
- Repotting
Dahlias should be repotted annually, usually in the spring. Tubers can be divided during this time to propagate new plants or control the size. They thrive when they have room to grow, so ensure the pot is appropriately sized.
- Humidity & Misting
Dahlias do best in moderate humidity conditions. They are not particularly humidity sensitive but should be protected from overly wet environments, which can promote fungal diseases. Ideal relative humidity is around 40-60%.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, adequate pot size, and good air circulation for indoor Dahlias.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, and good drainage are essential for outdoor Dahlias.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
- Life cycle
The life cycle of the Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga' begins with seed germination, which occurs in warm soil with proper moisture. After germination, the seedling establishes itself with a set of true leaves and begins its vegetative growth phase, where the plant develops its foliage and forms a bushy structure. As it matures, the Dahlia enters the bud formation stage when the daylight and temperature conditions are favorable, typically in summer. Flowering follows bud formation, showcasing the distinctive bright blooms that the 'Oakwood Naranga' variety is known for, which can continue until the first frost. After the flowering period, the plant enters a period of senescence where the above-ground parts start to die back, while the tubers underground go dormant over winter. With the return of warmer weather and spring conditions, the tubers can be divided and replanted, marking the beginning of the next growing cycle.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Oakwood Naranga', commonly referred to as Dahlia, can be most easily propagated through division of tubers. This process is ideally done in the spring after the threat of frost has passed but while the tubers are still dormant. To propagate Dahlias by division, one should first carefully dig up the clump of tubers from the ground, taking care not to damage them. Then, using a sharp and clean knife, cut the tuber clump apart, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a growth point from where a new plant will sprout. The divisions should then be allowed to dry for a day or two to form a callus over the cuts, which helps prevent rot. Once callused, the tuber divisions can be planted in well-draining soil at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters), spaced about 18 to 24 inches (approximately 46 to 61 centimeters) apart. Proper care should be taken to water the newly planted tubers, ensuring that they remain hydrated but not waterlogged.