Dahlia Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' features a stunning floral display characterized by its beautifully shaped and intricate blossoms. The flowers boast an elegant symmetry, with layers of petals that typically exhibit a striking gradient of colors ranging from a soft creamy hue at the base to a radiant pink at the tips, creating an appealing delicate pastel effect. Each petal is elongated and slightly curved, contributing to the flower's overall dynamic and fluffy appearance that's reminiscent of a fine, artful pompom. The foliage of Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' forms a lush backdrop to the flowers, with its deep green leaves providing a bold contrast to the softness of the blooms. The leaves are typically pinnate, with serrated edges, and possess a slightly glossy surface that catches the light, adding vibrancy and texture to the plant's presence in the garden. As is common with dahlias, this variety is known for its repeat blooming habit throughout its growing season, often with multiple flowers appearing on a single plant, giving it a full, abundant look. The individual blooms form at the end of sturdy stems that sprout from the plant, creating a visual spectacle that's both enchanting and alluring to onlookers and pollinators alike. While it's important to note that the actual size of 'Ruskin Bride' can vary, its appearance, with luxuriant petals and vigorous foliage, makes it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of romance and dramatic flair to their floral arrangements or garden beds.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' (S-c).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingesting dahlias, and they are not known to be harmful when touched or consumed in small quantities. As with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary, and consuming large amounts may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or an allergic reaction in susceptible individuals.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride', are generally not toxic to pets. They are not listed among the plants commonly known to be poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. Therefore, ingestion of dahlia plants typically should not cause any severe symptoms of poisoning in pets. However, as with humans, individual pets may have varying sensitivities, and consumption of any plant material can potentially lead to mild gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in some animals.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
4 feet (1.22 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.61 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Value: Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' adds visual appeal to gardens and landscapes with its vibrant and colorful blooms.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies, which are important for the ecosystem.
- Versatility: This variety can be planted in beds, borders, and containers, making it versatile for different garden designs and spaces.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' typically has a long flowering period that extends from summer into early fall.
- Cut Flowers: The blossoms make excellent cut flowers, lasting well in vases and perfect for floral arrangements.
- Mood Boosting: The bright and cheerful flowers of this dahlia can help improve mood and create a more welcoming atmosphere in gardens and homes.
- Ease of Propagation: It can be easily propagated from tubers or cuttings, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with friends.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' can serve as a food coloring: The bright and vibrant petals can be used to naturally color cakes, pastries, and desserts.
- These dahlias can be used in natural dye making: The petals produce a range of colors when used in the dyeing of fabrics or yarns.
- They are beneficial for companion planting: Dahlias can help to attract pollinators to vegetable gardens, assisting in the production of crops that rely on pollination.
- Dahlia blooms can be used in making potpourri: Dried petals of 'Ruskin Bride' add color and a gentle fragrance to homemade potpourri mixes.
- Their petals can be used for crafting biodegradable confetti: Dried petals offer an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper confetti for celebrations.
- The stems of dahlias can be utilized in basket weaving: After being properly treated, the fibrous stems can add strength and color to woven baskets.
- These flowers can inspire art and photography: With their intricate beauty, dahlias are often used as subjects in various forms of art and photography, helping artists to capture their essence on canvas or film.
- 'Ruskin Bride' dahlias can enhance the aesthetics of ponds or water features: Floating a few blooms in water can add a decorative touch to garden water elements during blooming season.
- The plants serve as educational tools: Gardening enthusiasts can use dahlias to teach about plant growth, hybridization, and horticultural practices.
- They can be gifted as a living present: Potted 'Ruskin Bride' dahlias make thoughtful and enduring gifts for friends and family who appreciate gardening.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Diversity and Variety: Dahlias come in numerous varieties and colors, symbolizing diversity and embracing uniqueness.
- Elegance and Dignity: With their sophisticated form, dahlias represent elegance and dignity, often used in occasions that call for refined tastes.
- Change and Transition: Dahlias bloom from midsummer through fall, which signifies a period of change and transition, often associated with life's unpredictable journey.
- Commitment and Bond: As dahlias are perennials that return year after year, they symbolize lasting commitment and an everlasting bond between individuals.
- Inner Strength: The structure and the sturdy stems of dahlias suggest a message of inner strength, resilience, and standing out in a unique way.
- Warning and Caution: Some cultures used dahlias to signify a warning or convey a sense of caution, perhaps due to their intense array of colors and imposing presence.
WaterFor Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride', also known simply as Dahlia, it's important to maintain consistently moist soil during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. A steady amount of water is crucial especially when the plant is flowering. Depending on weather conditions and soil type, this might equate to about 1-2 gallons per week. Always avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
LightDahlias thrive in full sunlight, so the 'Ruskin Bride' should be placed in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. An ideal spot would be in a garden area with unobstructed exposure to the sun throughout the day, ensuring that the plant gets ample light to support vigorous growth and blooming.
TemperatureDahlias, including the 'Ruskin Bride', prefer temperatures that are moderate to warm. They grow best when daytime temperatures range between 60°F and 75°F and do not do well in extreme heat or cold. They can generally withstand minimum temperatures down to about 50°F but are not frost-tolerant and should be protected or lifted from the ground if temperatures are expected to drop below this point.
PruningPruning Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' is essential for promoting vigorous growth and large blooms. Pinching the tips of the plant when it reaches about 16 inches tall will encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading spent flowers regularly will help to stimulate further blooming. The best time for pruning is during the active growing season, typically from spring through late summer.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite or sand to ensure adequate drainage. Compost can also be added to enrich the soil.
RepottingDahlias do not require frequent repotting and are often planted annually. Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' should be repotted when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years, using fresh potting mix to replenish nutrients.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' prefer moderate humidity levels. They can tolerate some variation, but it's best to aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlia in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Full sun location with moist, well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Ruskin Bride' begins its life as a tuber, lying dormant through the winter months. In the spring, as temperatures rise and daylight increases, it begins to sprout, developing stems and leaves. As the plant matures, it forms buds which eventually bloom into the characteristic vibrant, colorful flowers during the summer and early fall. Throughout the blooming period, Dahlias can be deadheaded to encourage more flowers to form. After the first frost, the above-ground foliage of the Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride' dies back, and the tubers can be dug up and stored in a cool, dry place to overwinter. The cycle is repeated the following spring when the tubers are replanted after the threat of frost has passed.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The Dahlia 'Ruskin Bride', a stunning cultivar known for its colorful blooms, is most commonly propagated through the division of tubers, which is best done in spring when the plant is beginning its active growth phase. To propagate by division, carefully lift the clump of tubers from the ground after the foliage has died back and store them in a cool, frost-free place over winter. In spring, divide the clump ensuring each section has at least one eye or growth point. Cuttings can also be taken in spring from new growth, but division remains the most popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Plant the divided tubers about 6 inches (15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil and space them about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for adequate growth and airflow.
