Dahlia Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' (Misc)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' is a strikingly beautiful flower, boasting a vibrant display that immediately captures attention. Its petals are a deep crimson hue, rich and intense, and each petal features contrasting white or lighter-colored stripes that run along its length, creating a dramatic, star-like effect. The petals are arranged in a lush, layered formation, sometimes curling at the edges, which adds to the flower's full and exuberant appearance. The center of the bloom often has a different color, which may be a golden-yellow or a deeper red, forming an eye-catching contrast with the striped petals. This dahlia has a lush green foliage backdrop, with leaves that are typically bright and broad, providing a rich canvas that further accentuates the flowers' vivid coloring. The overall aesthetic of the Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' is one of boldness and spectacular beauty, making it a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts for its showy display and the lively splash of color it adds to any garden or bouquet.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Starsister Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes'.
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety known as 'Starsister Crimson Stripes', are not considered toxic to humans. Ingesting any part of the dahlia plant typically does not lead to poisoning or produce harmful symptoms. However, like with any plant material, individual sensitivities can vary and ingesting plant parts is generally not advisable.
To pets
Dahlias are generally not toxic to pets. The 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' dahlia is not known to be poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. If a pet were to ingest parts of the plant, it is unlikely to result in poisoning. As with any non-food plant, consumption in large quantities could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but serious symptoms or consequences are not commonly associated with dahlias.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2 feet (60 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
Varies
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attractive Blooms: Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' is known for its striking flowers, which add a splash of color to any garden.
- Variety of Uses: This dahlia can be used in borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor decoration.
- Pollinator Friendly: The bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias have a long flowering period from mid-summer to the first frosts of autumn.
- Easy to Grow: They are relatively easy to cultivate, which makes them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Configurable Plant Size: By pinching back the growing tips, gardeners can control the size and shape of the plant to suit their space.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias can be used as a natural dye source. The brightly colored petals of 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' may provide hues for textiles and crafts.
- Insect habitat creation is another use for dahlias. Their complex flower structure can attract and support beneficial pollinators in a garden ecosystem.
- The tubers of dahlias are sometimes used in cooking, similar to other root vegetables. Although not common for this variety, it's theoretically possible as dahlias are related to the edible artichoke.
- Dahlias can be incorporated into floral waters and perfumes for their fragrance, contributing to a unique aromatic blend.
- As a companion plant, dahlias can help other plants by acting as a decoy; they attract pests away from vegetables and other garden plants.
- The stems of dahlias can be used in paper making crafts for adding texture and color to handmade paper.
- Dahlia petals can serve as a natural confetti, being biodegradable and adding a splash of color to celebrations or outdoor events.
- In certain cultural practices, dahlias have symbolic meanings and can be used in ceremonies or rituals for their associative properties.
- The blooms of dahlias can be pressed and used in botanical art or herbarium collections for educational or ornamental purposes.
- Dahlias can be used in photography as a vibrant subject for macro and nature photography due to their intricate patterns and vivid colors.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is often associated with positive energy and blessing in Feng Shui, though specific varieties like 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' aren't singled out in traditional practice. Generally, Dahlias can be used to add vibrant yang energy to an area, often recommended in living spaces to invite enthusiasm and innovation. In the Wealth & Prosperity sector, it is believed to attract good fortune, whereas in the Love & Marriage sector, Dahlias may be used to enhance commitment and romance.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Dignity and Elegance: Dahlias often symbolize dignity and elegance, reflecting their sophisticated spiral patterns and stunning variety of colors.
- Change and Variety: Associated with a rich assortment of colors and forms, dahlias represent diversity, change, and embracing novelty.
- Commitment and Bond: Because they are perennials that return year after year, dahlias are also symbols of commitment and an everlasting bond.
- Inner Strength: Dahlia flowers are known to withstand unfavorable conditions, thus symbolizing inner strength in the face of adversity.
- Creative Expression: The intricate petal patterns and vivid colors of the 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' variety could particularly signify a bold and creative spirit.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture, so it's critical to water your 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' deeply at least two to three times a week, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water each time. The goal is to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency to maintain proper moisture levels. Make sure to water directly at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and to prevent fungal diseases. It is best to check the top inch of soil for dryness before each watering to avoid overwatering.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, so place your 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' in a location where it receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. They can tolerate some light shade, especially in the afternoon when the sun is most intense, but they perform best and bloom most prolifically with ample sunlight.
TemperatureDahlias like 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' prefer temperatures between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 to 60 degrees at night. They can survive in temperatures as low as 40 degrees but should not be exposed to frost. The ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights, avoiding extreme heat over 90 degrees.
PruningRegularly deadhead spent flowers of your 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' Dahlia to encourage more blooms and maintain plant vigor. Pruning can also involve cutting back stems to promote bushier growth. Perform this task every few weeks during the blooming season. The best time for pruning is in the evening when the plants are not under stress from the sun.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil rich in organic matter. A mix of two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or well-rotted compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand works well. The ideal soil pH for Dahlias, including the 'Starsister Crimson Stripes', is slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.5-7.0.
RepottingDahlias, including the 'Starsister Crimson Stripes', typically need to be repotted every spring as they start to grow from their tubers. They should be repotted when the tubers outgrow their current container or if the soil has become exhausted and needs replenishment.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like the 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' prefer moderate humidity levels. They do not require high humidity and can thrive in the average humidity found in most outdoor garden settings.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright, indirect light and keep soil moist for indoors.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enrich soil, protect from strong winds outside.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' begins with seed germination in well-drained soil and a warm environment or from tuber planting. Following germination, the seedling emerges and develops its first set of true leaves, entering the vegetative growth stage where it develops a robust stem and foliage system. Once mature enough and provided with adequate light and nutrients, it transitions to the flowering stage, producing vibrant crimson-striped flowers that attract pollinators, a phase that can last from summer until the first frost. After pollination, the plant may produce seeds, completing its reproductive cycle. As temperatures drop in autumn, the dahlia enters dormancy; the above-ground portions die back, while the tubers survive underground. Dahlias are perennial plants, and in the following spring, the tubers can sprout new shoots, starting the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method of propagating the Dahlia 'Starsister Crimson Stripes' is by division. This process usually takes place during the spring time when the plant is about to begin its active growing period. Initially, the tuberous roots of the plant are unearthed carefully after the foliage has died back post-frost. Each clump of tubers should ideally have at least one eye, which is a point from where new shoots will emerge. The divisions can then be planted immediately in the garden or started in pots inside for an early start. Plant the tubers with the eyes facing upwards, at a depth of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters), and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow room for growth. Adequate watering and waiting for warmer soil temperatures will encourage the eyes to sprout, signaling the start of new plant growth.
