Dahlia Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe' (DblO)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe' (DblO) is a stunning ornamental plant that features a profusion of eye-catching flowers. Each bloom is characterized by its double-layered petals that create a full, voluminous look. The petals themselves exhibit a soft pink hue often blending into lighter shades or darker streaks, creating a delicate gradient of pink colors. The center of the flowers may display a different shade, sometimes with a yellowish or deeper pink tinge that adds depth and contrast to the bloom. The flowers of the Pink Giraffe Dahlia are structured in a way that resembles a waterlily, having a somewhat flattened shape compared to the typical roundness found in other types of dahlias. The overall appearance of the flowers is lush and they are known to attract attention with their bright, cheerful coloring. Surrounding these plush flowers are rich green leaves that provide a supportive backdrop, showcasing the flowers' vivid coloring. The foliage is typically shaped with pointed tips and serrated edges, contributing to the plant's ornamental value. Overall, the Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe' presents a striking visual display with its distinctively hued pink flowers complemented by a lush green foliage. Its presence in any garden or floral arrangement is bound to catch the eye and evoke a sense of joy and fascination.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Pink Giraffe Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe' (DblO)
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe', commonly known as Dahlia, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no well-documented cases of poisoning from Dahlias, and they are generally regarded as safe. While they may cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities, this is not common, and they are not known for having serious toxic effects. However, as with any non-food plant, it is always advisable to avoid ingesting any part of it to prevent any possible gastrointestinal discomfort.
To pets
Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe', commonly known as Dahlia, is considered to be relatively non-toxic to pets as well. Ingesting Dahlias might cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, but they are not known to cause serious poisoning or life-threatening symptoms. If a pet does consume a large amount of Dahlia, monitoring for any adverse reactions and seeking veterinary care if symptoms are noted is recommended.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: The vibrant blooms of Dahlias attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity.
- Landscape Beautification: With their showy and colorful flowers, Dahlias can enhance the aesthetic appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: Dahlias are suitable for a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and cutting gardens.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlias are popular for their long-lasting cut flowers, which are ideal for floral arrangements and bouquets.
- Easy Propagation: They can be grown from both seeds and tubers, making propagation relatively simple for gardeners.
- Range of Sizes and Colors: Dahlias come in an array of sizes, shapes, and colors, offering many decorative options for gardeners.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlias have a long flowering season, from summer into fall, providing color when many other plants have faded.
- Garden Focal Points: Large and bold Dahlias can serve as striking focal points within garden designs.
- Cultural Significance: Dahlias are often used in celebrations and have cultural significance in many regions around the world.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The petals of the dahlia can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a spectrum of pinks depending on the mordant used.
- Art Supplies: Crushed dahlia petals can be mixed with a binding agent to create environmentally-friendly watercolor or pigment for artists.
- Culinary Garnish: Dahlia petals, which are edible, can be used to add a splash of color and elegance to dishes, particularly desserts and salads.
- Photography Substrate: The vivid colors and patterns of dahlia petals make them a popular choice for macro photography and artistic compositions.
- Fashion Accessories: Dried or fresh dahlia blooms can be incorporated into handmade jewelry, such as pendants or earrings, by encasing them in resin.
- Floral Essence: Dahlia flower essences are used in aromatherapy and holistic practices to promote relaxation and emotional balance.
- Biodegradable Confetti: Petals of the dahlia flower can serve as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional confetti at events or celebrations.
- Horticultural Education: Dahlia plants can be employed in school gardens or educational programs to teach botany, hybridization, and the life cycle of plants.
- Eco-Friendly Packing Material: Soft and biodegradable, dahlia petals could be explored as a natural packing material to protect delicate items.
- Symbolic Gift: Much like other flowers, dahlias can be given to convey specific meanings, such as dignity and elegance, making them suitable for special occasions and gestures of respect.
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: With its sophisticated, layered petals, the Dahlia represents a dignified elegance, reflecting a graceful presence.
- Change and Diversity: Dahlias come in various shapes and colors, symbolizing diversity and embracing change.
- Commitment and Bond: As Dahlias are perennials, they signify a lasting bond and commitment that endures over time.
- Creative Expression: The unique patterns of Dahlia blooms are often associated with individuality and creative expression.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias can bloom in a range of conditions; they are seen as a symbol of inner strength and the ability to withstand challenging circumstances.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture, so water your 'Pink Giraffe' dahlias deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water each time, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry spells, you may need to water more frequently, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. In terms of volume, for mature plants, this could translate to approximately 1.5-2 gallons per week. Always avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases and instead opt for drip irrigation or watering at the base of the plant. Adjust watering if rainfall contributes to soil moisture, and reduce watering as the plant goes dormant in the fall.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, so position your 'Pink Giraffe' dahlia where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They are best planted in a location with early morning sun, which is less intense than the afternoon sun, to help the flowers maintain their vibrant color. Avoid planting in areas with heavy shade, as this can hinder flowering and make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases.
TemperatureDahlias, including the 'Pink Giraffe', prefer moderate temperatures and will grow best when daytime temperatures are between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive minimum temperatures of 50°F, but frost is detrimental. Dahlias start to struggle in temperatures over 90°F, so during extreme heat, provide some afternoon shade or use a cover to protect them. The ideal temperature range for their growth is 60°F to 70°F.
PruningPrune your 'Pink Giraffe' dahlia to promote bushier growth, larger blooms, and to maintain a neat appearance. Pinch back the main stem when plants are about a foot tall to encourage branching. Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage more blooms. After the first killing frost in the fall, cut down the entire plant to ground level as it enters dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 6.5 and 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias would be one part garden soil, one part peat moss, and one part perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients.
RepottingDahlias, generally, should be repotted every year, mostly in the spring when you see new growth starting. This helps to refresh the soil and give the plant more room to grow.
Humidity & MistingDahlias do not require high humidity levels; they thrive in average ambient humidity found in most outdoor environments. Provide good air circulation to prevent disease.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, adequate pot size, and good drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in well-drained soil; full sun for best blooms.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlias, including the 'Pink Giraffe' variety, begin their life cycle as tubers planted after the threat of frost has passed. They sprout and grow stems and leaves, using energy stored in the tubers. As the plant matures, it develops a strong root system and foliage, eventually leading to the budding phase. The buds bloom into the characteristic showy double flowers of 'Pink Giraffe' during the summer and continue into early fall. After flowering, the plant begins to wilt as temperatures drop and enters a period of dormancy. Gardeners typically dig up the tubers before the first frost to store them over the winter, repeating the cycle when they are replanted in the spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
The most popular method of propagating Dahlia 'Pink Giraffe' involves using tuber divisions. This is typically done in the spring, just as the new growth starts to appear. Firstly, carefully dig up the tuber clump from the ground after the foliage has been blackened by frost and the plant has been allowed to dry for a few days. Using a sharp and clean knife, divide the tuber into sections ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber where new growth emerges. Let the cut surfaces dry for a day to form a protective callus. Then, plant the tuber sections about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil, making sure the eyes are facing upwards. Water the divisions lightly to settle the soil around them and keep the soil moist until growth appears.
