Dahlia Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' (Sin)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' is a captivating flowering plant known for its striking, vivid blossoms. The flowers of this Dahlia are characterized by their vibrant red color, which can range from a deep, rich crimson to a bright, fiery scarlet. The blooms are distinctive with a star-like pattern, often displaying a beautiful contrast of colors as the petals sometimes exhibit shades of yellow or orange towards the base, creating a stunning gradient effect that radiates outward. Each petal is elongated and may have smooth or slightly ruffled edges, coming together to form a semi-double flower head that is both lush and showy. The petals are arranged in a somewhat orderly fashion, giving the bloom a neat, almost geometric look that is pleasing to the eye. The leaves of this Dahlia are typically a deep green, which forms a lush background that further accentuates the brilliance of the red petals. The foliage may have a slight shine to it and is composed of compound leaves that are divided into smaller leaflets. Each leaflet is ovate with pointed tips and toothed edges, contributing to the overall texture and fullness of the plant. The combination of the dramatic red flowers against the green foliage creates a bold and dramatic display in any garden or bouquet. Its blossoms are not only visually stunning but are also likely to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, adding to the dynamism of the plant's presence. With its starry-eyed appeal, this Dahlia variety is a true standout with blossoms that capture the essence of its name.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no significant evidence that suggests that ingestion of Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' has any toxic effect on humans. Therefore, accidental ingestion might not lead to serious poisoning. However, it is always advisable to prevent ingestion of any ornamental plants by children as individual sensitivity can vary and mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur.
To pets
Dahlias are not listed as toxic to pets such as dogs and cats by major animal poison control resources. This means that the ingestion of Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' is not expected to cause serious harm to your pets. However, it is still possible for pets to experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, if they consume large quantities of the plant. As with any non-food plant, it's best to keep an eye on pets and discourage them from chewing on dahlias to avoid any potential discomfort.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
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- Visual Appeal: Dahlias provide stunning visual interest with their vivid colors and unique petal structures.
- Garden Design: They are perfect for adding height and texture to flower beds and borders.
- Extended Blooming: Dahlias have a long flowering season, often from midsummer to the first frosts, offering continuous blooms.
- Pollinator Attraction: These flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Versatility: Dahlias are suitable for growing in the ground or containers, making them adaptable to various garden spaces.
- Range of Colors: They come in a wide variety of colors, making them useful for creating specific color themes in garden design.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlias make excellent cut flowers, with long-lasting blooms that add elegance to any bouquet.
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 used to create a natural plant dye, offering a range of colors from pinks to purples depending on the mordant used.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be utilized as natural straws or for crafting small, biodegradable tubes for various art projects.
- Dahlia tubers are edible when cooked and can be used as a vegetable similar to a potato in some cultures.
- Flower heads can be used as a natural watercolor paint when crushed, providing a soft and subtle coloring for artwork.
- The robust stems of dahlias can be woven or braided into garden ties for supporting other plants.
- Dahlia flowers can be pressed and included in scrapbooking or paper-making for decorative purposes.
- Can serve as an educational tool in botany classes to demonstrate plant growth cycles from tuber to flower.
- Dahlia blooms can be used to decorate cakes or desserts as they are non-toxic, adding an elegant touch to culinary presentations.
- The vibrant flowers can be used in photography as a natural backdrop or prop to enhance the composition and color contrast.
- Dahlia petals can be crafted into biodegradable confetti, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional paper or plastic confetti.
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 their intricate petals and bold colors, dahlias are often associated with poise and dignity, symbolizing an elegant and graceful presence.
- Change and Diversity: Dahlias come in a variety of shapes and colors, making them a symbol for change and diversity, reflecting adaptability and variety in life.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gift, dahlias are said to express sentiments of a lasting commitment and a strong bond between two people.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias can symbolize inner strength, providing encouragement to someone facing challenges, and reminding them of their personal fortitude.
- Creative Expression: Dahlias are sometimes associated with creativity and innovation due to their striking appearance and range of colors, inspiring artistic endeavors.
WaterDahlias require careful watering to thrive. For 'Starry Eyes - Red', it is important to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, providing about one to two gallons per watering session, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently, while in cooler, wetter weather, you can water less often. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases.
LightDahlias need full sun to perform their best. 'Starry Eyes - Red' should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid planting in areas with heavy shade or where buildings or trees could cast prolonged shade on the plant throughout the day.
TemperatureDahlias, including 'Starry Eyes - Red', prefer temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive minimal exposure to cooler temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night but should be protected from frost. Maximum temperatures for optimal growth should not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid stress on the plant.
PruningDahlias benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. For 'Starry Eyes - Red', pinch out the growing tip after the plant has developed several sets of leaves. Throughout the blooming season, cut back spent flowers and any damaged or diseased stems. The best time for significant pruning is early in the season and as needed when deadheading.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' thrives best in a soil mix that is fertile, well-draining, and slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil recipe for dahlias would be a combination of loamy garden soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite, which ensures proper drainage and aeration. It's important to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide nutrients for optimal growth.
RepottingDahlias, such as 'Starry Eyes - Red', typically do not need to be repotted as they are grown from tubers that are planted annually. After the growing season, the tubers are dug up, stored for the winter, and then replanted the following spring. However, if you're growing dahlias in containers, ensure they have enough room to grow and consider repotting when they outgrow their current pot, usually every 1-2 years.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Starry Eyes - Red' prefer moderate humidity levels. They can tolerate a range of humidity conditions as long as they have good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. It's not necessary to maintain a specific humidity level, but avoid conditions that are too damp or too dry for long periods.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place in bright, indirect light and monitor soil moisture.
Outdoor
Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycle'Starry Eyes - Red' Dahlias begin their life cycle when the tubers are planted in the ground after the last frost date, as they are temperature-sensitive and require a warm soil to sprout. These dahlias shoot stems and leaves within a few weeks and, as long as they receive adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients, they will continue to grow into lush, bushy plants. During the growing season, they develop buds that bloom into the characteristic red flowers with a starry pattern, which can be prolific with proper care. After flowering, the dahlias continue to thrive until the weather turns colder. With the approach of fall, the above-ground growth starts to yellow and wilt; at this point, the plant prepares for dormancy by sending energy back to the tubers. Before the first frost, the tubers can be dug up and stored for the winter to be replanted the next spring, thus completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Dahlia 'Starry Eyes - Red' (Sin) is typically propagated through division, a process best done in the early spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, first dig up the tuberous roots of the dahlia after the foliage has died back and the plant has gone dormant. Gently brush off any excess soil and allow the tubers to dry for a few days in a cool, dry place. Once dry, cut the tubers into sections ensuring that each division has at least one eye or growth point, which appears as a small bud or swelling. It's important to use a clean, sharp knife to make the divisions and to dust the cut surfaces with a fungicide to prevent rot. Replant the divisions at a depth approximately 6 inches (15.24 centimeters) in well-draining soil with the eyes facing upwards while allowing enough space for the plants to grow. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged as the new dahlias begin to establish themselves.
