Dahlia Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' (Col)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' is a striking ornamental plant characterized by its vibrant and showy flowers. The blossoms are a blend of warm hues, often displaying petals that exhibit a gradient of color, transitioning from a soft creamy yellow at their base to a delicate peach or pink at the tips. This coloration gives each flower a fiery, sunset-like appearance that is both eye-catching and elegant. The flowers themselves are formed by numerous petals, which are arranged in a full, almost spherical bloom. These petals have a gentle, overlapping pattern that creates a sense of depth and volume, adding to the plant's lush aesthetic. The blooms are known for their substantial size and can appear quite plush, making them a popular choice for garden enthusiasts and floral arrangers alike. Adding to its appeal, the Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' has a bushy and robust foliage. The leaves are typically a rich green color and have a slightly serrated edge, which contrasts beautifully with the softness of the flowers. Together, the blooms and foliage create a plant that is both visually stunning and capable of making a statement in any garden setting. Although the size of the plant is not to be discussed, it's clear that the Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' is a substantial and attractive addition to any space it occupies, with a bloom that is sure to captivate those who encounter it.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' (Col).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally not toxic to humans. The Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' is a variety of dahlia, and dahlias are not known to be poisonous upon ingestion. Therefore, it is unlikely that consuming parts of the Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' would lead to symptoms of poisoning in humans. However, it is always advisable to avoid eating ornamental plants due to potential pesticide use and the lack of information on their edibility and potential allergens.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert', are considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet were to ingest part of a dahlia plant, it is unlikely to result in poisoning. Symptoms typically associated with plant toxicity, such as gastrointestinal upset, should not occur from consuming dahlias. However, each animal might react differently, and it is always best to prevent pets from eating plants not intended for consumption.
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
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Blooms: Dahlias boast showy and colorful flowers that can enhance the visual appeal of any garden or landscape.
- Extended Flowering Season: Dahlias, including 'Susan Gilbert', offer a long flowering season, often from midsummer until the first frosts, providing enduring beauty.
- Attracts Pollinators: These flowers are known to attract bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollinating gardens and ecosystems.
- Wide Range of Uses: Dahlias are versatile and can be used in borders, containers, as cut flowers, and in showy floral arrangements.
- Easy Propagation: They can be easily propagated from tubers, cuttings, or seeds, allowing gardeners to expand their collection or share with others.
- Diversity in Landscaping: With a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, dahlias such as 'Susan Gilbert' add diversity and interest to landscaping designs.
- Source of Joy and Relaxation: Gardening with dahlias can be a relaxing and fulfilling hobby, providing a source of joy and satisfaction.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' petals can be used to create natural dyes for textiles, providing a range of hues from pinks to lavenders depending on the mordant used.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or piping in small-scale garden irrigation systems.
- Dahlia blooms are edible and can be candied to decorate cakes and desserts, adding an elegant and colorful touch.
- The sturdy stems of dahlias can be used as a natural support for other plants in the garden, assisting in the growth of climbing vegetables and fruits.
- When dried, dahlias can be integrated into potpourri mixes for a pleasant fragrance and a burst of color.
- Dahlia tubers can be used to demonstrate vegetative propagation in educational settings, showcasing how new plants can grow from tuber cuttings.
- As a natural insect repellent, dahlia leaves can be crushed and the juice applied to the skin to ward off bugs.
- Used as a natural pH indicator, dahlia petals change color in the presence of acids or bases, making it a useful tool for simple soil pH tests.
- Dahlia flowers can be pressed and included in personal journals or used to create botanical art, preserving their beauty.
- Dried dahlias can be crafted into bio-degradable confetti for eco-friendly celebrations or events.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Plant Symbolism- Commitment and Bond That Lasts: Dahlias often symbolize a lasting union and loyalty between two people, making them a popular flower in wedding bouquets or as gifts to celebrate anniversaries or long-lasting friendships.
- Elegance and Dignity: With their intricate petals and stunning appearance, dahlias represent elegance and inner strength, reflecting a dignified presence that also indicates a sense of adventure and curiosity.
- Diversity and Uniqueness: Given the wide variety of colors and forms, dahlias can also stand for diversity and the unique qualities that each individual brings to the spectrum of life.
- Creativity: The dahlia’s vivid colors and varied shapes are often associated with a burst of creativity and the inspiration to follow one’s artistic passions.
- Change and Transition: In the language of flowers, dahlias also denote change and the ability to thrive despite challenging situations, symbolizing personal growth and resilience.
- Warning or Betrayal: Some cultures may associate the dahlia with a sense of betrayal or a warning of an impending situation, due to the complexities and unexpected patterns in the flower's form, reminding one to stay aware and cautious.
WaterDahlias should be watered deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1 to 2 inches of water each time. Water the soil directly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods, additional watering may be necessary to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. It's important to reduce watering once the flowering has ceased and the plant begins to go dormant. Overwatering can cause tuber rot, so ensure good drainage in the soil.
LightDahlias thrive best in full sun, meaning at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. It's crucial to place the Susan Gilbert Dahlia in a location that receives ample morning light and some protection from the intense afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates, to prevent scorching the blooms and leaves.
TemperatureDahlias prefer a temperate climate with a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures of about 50°F but should be protected or lifted if frosts are anticipated. Dahlias may struggle or stop flowering altogether if the temperature exceeds 80°F for extended periods.
PruningPruning Dahlias involves deadheading spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Cut back the stems to the next full set of leaves. In late fall, after the first frost has killed back the foliage, cut the plants down to about 2 to 4 inches above the ground. This pruning prepares the Dahlias for winter dormancy.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer fertile, well-draining soil with a pH around 6.5 to 7.0. A mix containing loamy garden soil, peat moss, and sand is ideal to ensure proper drainage and aeration. Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for added nutrients to help 'Susan Gilbert' flourish.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Susan Gilbert', should be repotted typically every spring as they start to grow from tubers. They don't need frequent repotting; annually is sufficient to refresh the soil and provide room for growth.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Susan Gilbert' thrive in moderate humidity levels. Aim for an environment with humidity levels similar to those found outdoors, avoiding overly dry or excessively moist conditions.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place 'Susan Gilbert' Dahlia in bright, indirect light indoors with good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant 'Susan Gilbert' Dahlia in full sun, well-draining soil, and protect from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert' begins with the planting of tubers in spring, after the last chance of frost has passed. The tubers sprout and produce shoots, which then develop into sturdy stems with lush foliage. By midsummer, the plant starts to flower, showcasing its vibrant blooms that continue until the first frost in fall. During the blooming period, consistent deadheading encourages more flowers to develop. As the weather cools, the plant's growth slows down, and after the first frost, the foliage dies back. The tubers can be dug up, cleaned, and stored in a cool, frost-free place during the winter, to be replanted the following spring, thus completing the annual life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagating a Dahlia 'Susan Gilbert', also known simply as a Dahlia, is through division of its tubers. This process is typically done in the spring just before or during the time when new shoots begin to emerge from the tubers. Firstly, the gardener must carefully dig up the clump of dahlia tubers, making sure not to damage them. It is important to find the eyes, or growth points, on the tubers which will sprout the new plants. Using a sharp, clean knife, the cluster of tubers can then be cut into sections, making sure that each section has at least one eye. Once divided, the tuber sections can be planted immediately in well-draining soil at a depth of about 6 inches (15 centimeters) and spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to allow for ample growth. The cut surfaces of the tubers should be allowed to air-dry for a couple of days to heal over, reducing the risk of rot, before planting.
