Dahlia Dahlia 'So Dainty' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'So Dainty' is a captivating plant with an elegant appearance characterized by its delicate blooms. The flowers feature a wonderful blend of soft color, often a pastel hue that can be white, pink, or a gentle blend of both, with subtle hints of creamy yellow at their base, giving them a tender and pleasing look. Each petal is beautifully formed, adding to the intricate detail of the flower head. The petals are slender and slightly curved, radiating around a central disk, which may be less visible, allowing the petals themselves to command full attention with their intricate arrangement and intricate symmetry. The blooms have a layered appearance, with the petals neatly arranged in a decorative, orderly fashion that exhibits both gracefulness and a sense of lush fullness. Below the flowers, the foliage is typically a deep, rich green, providing a striking contrast to the lighter tones of the flowers, and making the floral display even more pronounced. The leaves are shaped to complement the overall appearance of the plant, with edges that may be smooth or gently serrated. Dahlia 'So Dainty's' overall demeanor is such that it is often described as romantic and whimsical, making it a favorite among gardeners and floral enthusiasts who seek to add a touch of elegance and soft beauty to their surroundings. Overall, the plant exudes a delicate charm that is both eye-catching and soothing, making it a delightful addition to any garden display or floral arrangement.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'So Dainty'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'So Dainty' variety, are not considered toxic to humans. They do not contain substances known to cause poisoning if ingested. Therefore, there should be no symptoms of poisoning or toxic consequences from ingesting parts of this plant for humans. However, people with sensitive skin may sometimes experience irritation from handling the plant, and it is always wise to be cautious and avoid ingesting any plant material unless it is known to be safe and intended for consumption.
To pets
Dahlias, such as 'So Dainty,' are generally considered non-toxic to pets. They are not known to contain substances that would cause poisoning in animals if parts of the plant are ingested. Hence, there are typically no poisoning symptoms or dangerous consequences associated with pets consuming dahlia plants. Nonetheless, individual pets may have varying sensitivities, and ingestion of plant material can sometimes result in mild gastrointestinal upset, though this is not a common occurrence. It is always prudent to prevent pets from ingesting plants not specifically meant for them.
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- Enhances Garden Aesthetics: Dahlia 'So Dainty' adds a touch of elegance with its delicate flowers and can serve as a focal point in a garden design.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting biodiversity.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlias have a long flowering period from mid-summer until the first frosts, providing color for several months.
- Cut Flower Use: The flowers are ideal for cutting and creating floral arrangements, adding beauty to indoor spaces.
- Variety of Uses: Suitable for borders, containers, and as specimen plants, making them versatile for different garden styles and sizes.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlia tubers can be easily divided to create more plants, making it cost-effective and easy to expand one's garden.
- Endless Variety: Dahlias come in numerous sizes, colors, and forms, allowing for a diverse display and personalization of garden spaces.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia petals can be pressed and used in decorative art projects, such as creating unique greeting cards or bookmarks.
- The tubers of Dahlias can be roasted and ground to make a coffee substitute, although this is not commonly practiced.
- When dyeing textiles, Dahlia flowers can provide a range of natural dyes, offering hues from yellows to oranges depending on the mordant used.
- Dahlia flowers can be used in salads to add a burst of color and a slightly spicy flavor reminiscent of watercress.
- Petals of the Dahlia flower can be used as a natural pigment for cosmetic products like blush or eyeshadow.
- The hollow stems of Dahlias can be used by children to blow bubbles, making for a fun, natural toy in the garden.
- Dried Dahlia petals can serve as a component in potpourri, adding a colorful touch to the mixture of dried flowers and spices.
- Artists can use crushed Dahlia petals as a pigment for watercolor painting, creating soft and natural tones.
- In photography, the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of Dahlia flowers make them excellent subjects for macro photography and botanical studies.
- Gardeners may use spent Dahlia blooms as mulch or compost material, enriching the soil as they decompose.
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 refined blooms of the Dahlia 'So Dainty' embody a sense of grace and poise, reminiscent of a time when elegance and dignity were highly valued.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias, with their multitude of petals tightly arranged, represent a lasting bond and commitment between two people.
- Change and Diversity: Dahlias come in a wide range of colors and forms, symbolizing diversity and embracing change.
- Creative Spirit: The complex structure of Dahlias inspires creativity and suggests someone with a vibrant and innovative spirit.
- Warning of Betrayal: In the Victorian language of flowers, Dahlias were sometimes associated with instability or betrayal, possibly stemming from the flower's myriad of appearances.
WaterDahlias, including 'So Dainty', generally require deep watering two to three times per week, although this can vary depending on weather conditions and soil type. The goal is to provide a deep soaking that reaches the roots, encouraging them to grow deep into the soil. When watering, aim for approximately one gallon of water per plant for each session. During the hotter summer months, the plants may need more frequent watering to ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It's important not to overwater, as dahlias are susceptible to rot if the soil is too soggy.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun conditions, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal spot for 'So Dainty' is an area with uninterrupted sunlight, away from tall trees or buildings that might cast shade. They can tolerate some light afternoon shade, particularly in hotter climates, but too much shade will result in fewer blooms and leggy plants.
TemperatureDahlias prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 70°F for optimal growth, but they can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 90°F. They are sensitive to frost and should not be planted outside until the danger of frost has passed. During the growing season, maintaining a consistent temperature within their preferred range will result in the best performance and flower production.
PruningPruning dahlias like 'So Dainty' is done to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Pinch out the growing tips when plants are about a foot tall to promote branching. Remove spent flower heads regularly (deadheading) to encourage continued blooming throughout the season. The best time for major pruning is in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins, cutting back any old or damaged stems.
SoilDahlias thrive in rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. A mix of two-thirds garden soil and one-third organic compost or well-rotted manure works well. Ensure the planting area doesn't hold water to prevent tuber rot.
RepottingDahlias, such as 'So Dainty', generally don't require frequent repotting as they are often grown as annuals. However, if grown as perennials, dividing the tubers every 2-3 years in spring is sufficient.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels. While they can tolerate a range from 40-70%, they flourish best when humidity is not too high to prevent issues like fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and ensure good air flow.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, shelter from wind, enrich soil.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'So Dainty' (Dahlia pinnata) begins its life as a tuber, which can be planted in the spring after the last frost when the soil has warmed. The tuber sprouts and develops into a young plant, with stems, leaves, and a root system establishing itself. As the plant matures, it goes through a vegetative stage where it grows rapidly, given adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Following the vegetative stage, the plant enters the flowering phase, producing its distinctive pink and white blossoms throughout the summer and into early fall. After flowering, as temperatures drop, the plant begins to die back and enters dormancy; the above-ground portions wither, but the tuber survives underground. To complete its life cycle, the tuber can be left in the ground or dug up, stored over winter, and replanted the following spring.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'So Dainty' can be propagated most effectively during the springtime when the plant is emerging from dormancy. The most popular method is the division of tubers, which involves separating the clumps of tubers that have formed beneath the soil. Each section should have at least one eye, or growth point. Carefully divide the clump with a clean, sharp knife, ensuring there is at least one eye on each piece of tuber. Let the cut surfaces dry for a few days to form a callus, which helps prevent rot. The divisions can then be planted about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) deep, spaced around 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart, in well-draining soil and in a location that receives plenty of sunlight. Once planted, these tuber clumps will grow and develop into new Dahlia 'So Dainty' plants, preserving the characteristics of the parent plant.
