Dahlia Dahlia 'Peachette' (Misc/lil)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Peachette' is a captivating plant known for its stunning flowers and vibrant appearance. The flowers of 'Peachette' are a delightful blend of soft peach and warm pink tones that often give them a gradient or ombre effect. The petals are arranged in a precise, geometric pattern that is characteristic of dahlias, and they generally have a rounded shape with tips that may curve gracefully outward. These blossoms can be quite lush and full, often having multiple layers of petals that contribute to their fluffy, pompon-like look. The outer layers of petals can be longer and more spread out, creating an elegant backdrop for the more tightly packed inner layers which tend to be shorter and denser. A distinctive feature is the variation of petal shapes within each flower, some of which may have rounded edges while others might display more pointed tips. The foliage of Dahlia 'Peachette' typically consists of green leaves that provide a rich backdrop for the dramatic blossoms. The leaves can have a range of shapes from elongated to more lance-like, and they are held on sturdy stems that support the weight of the large flowers. The overall appearance of the plant is one of lushness and vibrant color, a testament to its popularity among gardeners who wish to add a splash of warmth and depth to their floral displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
No common names available or applicable for this specific cultivar.
Common names
Dahlia 'Peachette'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are not toxic to humans. They are generally considered safe and do not cause harm if touched or ingested in small quantities. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities can occur, so it is always best to be cautious when handling or ingesting plants that you are not familiar with.
To pets
Dahlias are considered non-toxic to both cats and dogs. While they are not poisonous, ingestion of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets. Symptoms of such non-specific gastrointestinal distress may include vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. If you suspect your pet has ingested a large amount of dahlia or is showing signs of illness, it is still advisable to contact your veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Peach
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 'Peachette' adds visual interest to gardens with its soft peach-colored blooms and lush foliage.
- Versatility: They can be planted in garden beds, borders, and containers, making them suitable for various landscaping designs.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are known to attract butterflies and bees, which are beneficial for pollinating the garden.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for indoor arrangements, often lasting 7-10 days in a vase.
- Seasonal Color: Dahlias bloom from midsummer to the first frost, providing long-lasting color in the garden when many other plants have finished flowering.
- Easy Propagation: Tubers can be divided to propagate new plants, making it easy and cost-effective to expand your collection or share with others.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia tuber flour: The tubers of 'Peachette' can be dried and ground into a gluten-free flour alternative for baking and cooking, providing a unique flavor to dishes.
- Natural dye: The vibrant petals can be boiled to extract a natural dye for coloring fabrics, wool, or even homemade cosmetics.
- Insect feeding: Dahlias can be placed strategically in the garden to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystem health.
- Photography: 'Peachette' dahlias, with their unique peachy coloration, make excellent subjects for botanical photography and can enhance portfolios.
- Crafting: The flowers and tubers can be used in crafting, for instance, the petals for making potpourri or floral arrangements, and the tubers for making stamps.
- Edible decoration: The petals of 'Peachette' dahlias are edible and can be used as a colorful garnish on desserts and salads.
- Companion planting: 'Peachette' dahlias can be planted alongside vegetables as companion plants to potentially help deter certain pests due to their scent and vibrancy.
- Eco-friendly confetti: Dried petals of 'Peachette' dahlias can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti at events.
- Art supplies: Petals can be pressed and included in art projects or used as natural elements in mixed media artwork.
- Teaching tool: The 'Peachette' dahlia, with its complex petal structures and vibrant colors, can be used as an educational specimen in botany and horticulture classes to illustrate plant morphology and hybridization.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are often associated with positive energy and are believed to aid in bringing balance to a home's Feng Shui. They can be used to energize a space and are particularly effective when placed in the Love and Marriage area of a home to encourage commitment and romance, or in the Wealth and Prosperity sector to attract abundance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Grace under Pressure: Dahlias often bloom in adversity and can symbolize remaining graceful under difficult circumstances.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: The Dahlia 'Peachette' comes in a variety of forms and colors, symbolizing the beauty of diversity and encouraging individuals to embrace their unique qualities.
- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlia 'Peachette' has a sophisticated presence, representing elegance and dignity in personal demeanor.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as gifts, dahlias can symbolize a lasting bond and a commitment to another person.
- Change and Transformation: Since dahlias bloom for extended periods and then return after winter, they are often associated with change and the ability to thrive despite challenges, reflecting personal growth and transformation.
WaterDahlias require regular watering, especially during dry periods. For the Dahlia 'Peachette', it is recommended to provide a deep watering two to three times a week, depending on weather conditions. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not soggy. When watering, it's best to apply water directly to the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the foliage to prevent disease. A good rule of thumb is to provide about an inch of water each week, which translates to about 0.6 gallons for an average-sized plant. Adjust the amount during especially hot or dry periods, as the plant may require more frequent watering.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight. The Dahlia 'Peachette' should be placed in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Ideally, the plant should be positioned in a spot that enjoys the morning sun, as it provides bright light without the intensity of the midday sun. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade can help protect the blooms from scorching.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate to warm temperatures and are not frost-hardy. The Dahlia 'Peachette' grows best when daytime temperatures are between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, with a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. It is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, as frost can cause severe damage or even kill the plant. The ideal growing conditions for dahlias include a consistent temperature range without extreme fluctuations.
PruningPruning dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Peachette', encourages bushier growth and more abundant blooms. It is best to pinch or cut back the tips of the main stem once the plant reaches about 12 inches in height. Throughout the growing season, remove any dead or damaged foliage and spent flower heads to promote new growth and blooms. The best time for major pruning is in the late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Peachette' would include equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Regularly adding compost can improve soil fertility and structure.
RepottingDahlia 'Peachette' typically doesn't need to be repotted as they are grown from tubers that are planted annually. After the growing season, tubers are usually dug up, stored for winter, and then replanted in the spring.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Peachette' prefers moderate humidity levels but is quite adaptable to the humidity levels found in most outdoor garden environments. There is no specific humidity requirement for this plant.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and keep soil evenly moist.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, after frost danger passes.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Peachette' begins its life cycle as a tuber, which is planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. It then sprouts and grows into a small seedling, which rapidly matures into a bushy plant. The plant develops a sturdy stem and leaves, and eventually, it produces buds. The buds bloom into the characteristic large and showy flowers of dahlias, with 'Peachette' displaying peach-colored petals that are lighter at the tips. After flowering, the plant will set seed, although many dahlia growers choose to remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms and prevent seed formation. As temperatures drop in the fall, the plant's aerial parts begin to wither, signaling the time to lift and store the tubers for the next season if the climate is not suitable for overwintering in the ground.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Peachette' is best propagated by division, a process that is typically performed in the spring after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has begun to warm. To propagate by division, carefully lift the tuber clump from the ground using a shovel or garden fork, taking care not to damage the tubers. Once excavated, wash off any soil and cut the clump into sections, ensuring that each section has at least one eye, which is a growth point for new shoots. The divisions should then be allowed to dry for a few days to form a callus over the cuts, which helps to prevent rot when they are replanted. Finally, replant the sections at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm), spacing them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 cm) apart to allow sufficient room for growth.
