Dahlia Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' (Ba)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' is a captivating plant known for its exquisite flower display. This dahlia boasts a stunning array of petals, often characterized by a blend of soft pinks and creamy whites that can sometimes give off a subtle gradient effect from the center to the edges. The petals are arranged in a precise and orderly fashion, radiating from the center to form a full and intricate bloom, typical of many dahlias. The blooms exhibit a classic form with a slight curvature to the petals, giving them a delicate, yet lush appearance. The petals have a velvety texture that seems to invite touch, reflecting light in such a way that the colors can appear to shift subtly in different lighting conditions. In the center of each flower, the tiny florets and reproductive parts may be visible, usually adhering to the same color palette but sometimes sporting a slightly deeper hue that draws the eye inward. The foliage of 'Tahoma Lady Oh' is a deep, rich green, providing a perfect backdrop for the showy flowers. The leaves are sizeable and tend to have a defined shape, with serrated or scalloped edges, contributing further to the plant's ornamental value. This foliage grows on sturdy stems that support the heavy blooms, which are a favorite among gardeners not just for their beauty but also for their ability to make striking cut flowers. Overall, Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' is a testament to the charm and elegance of dahlias—a truly enchanting addition to any garden that provides a lush, colorful display without the specifics of its size entering the picture.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Tahoma Lady Oh Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' (Ba).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They are not known for containing harmful toxins that could cause serious illness or death if ingested. However, as with any plant, individual allergies or sensitivities may exist, and ingesting plant material could potentially cause mild stomach upset in some people. There are no common symptoms of poisoning associated with Dahlias because they are not poisonous.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh', are generally considered non-toxic to pets as well. They do not contain substances known to be poisonous to dogs, cats, or other domestic animals. As with humans, ingestion of plant material by pets might cause some gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhea, especially if the pet is not used to eating plant material or has a sensitive stomach. However, Dahlias are not associated with severe toxicity or fatal poisoning in pets.
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- Aesthetic Appeal: The Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady' boasts vibrant flowers that enhance the beauty of gardens and landscapes.
- Pollinator Attraction: This variety of dahlia acts as a magnet for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of your garden ecosystem.
- Versatility: It can be grown in borders, containers, and as a cut flower, making it a versatile addition to many garden designs.
- Long Blooming Period: Dahlias, including 'Tahoma Lady', often have a lengthy blooming season, providing color and interest from mid-summer until the first fall frost.
- Variety of Uses: This dahlia is suitable for use in bouquets and flower arrangements, adding a touch of elegance to any floral display.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated by division, allowing gardeners to expand their collection and share with others.
- Seasonal Dynamics: Dahlias provide dynamic changes in the garden as they progress through their growth cycle, with the 'Tahoma Lady' showcasing its deep pink hues prominently.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography subject: Dahlia flowers, with their intricate petals and striking colors, are often used as subjects for photographers looking to create beautiful floral compositions.
- Artistic inspiration: Artists may use Dahlias as inspiration for paintings, drawings, and textile designs, capturing their vivid hues and symmetrical form.
- Fabric dye: The petals of Dahlias can be used to create a natural dye, producing a range of colors depending on the mordant used in the dyeing process.
- Environmental education: Dahlias can be used in school gardens or educational programs to teach children about plant biology, lifecycle, and horticulture.
- Edible decoration: Dahlia petals are edible and can be used to add a splash of color as garnishes for salads, desserts, and fancy cocktails.
- Craft material: The sturdy stems and colorful flowers of Dahlias can be incorporated into art and craft projects, such as homemade wreaths or dried flower arrangements.
- Horticultural competitions: Dahlia flowers are commonly entered into flower shows and horticultural competitions due to their diverse forms and colors.
- Bioindicator species: Dahlias could potentially serve as bioindicator plants, helping to reveal the health of an ecosystem or the presence of certain environmental conditions, such as soil pH.
- Theme gardens: Dahlias can be the central theme of a garden to create a seasonal display, teaching visitors about variety within a single species of plant.
- Floral language and symbolism: Dahlias in different cultures can symbolize various concepts, such as dignity and elegance, and can be used in bouquets to convey these messages.
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: Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' exudes sophistication and grace, much like a lady of high society; it's often used to symbolize an elegant and dignified charm.
- Inner Strength: Dahlias are known for their strong stems and vibrant blooms which can withstand challenging conditions, making them a symbol of resilience and inner strength.
- Creativity: With its intricate petals and stunning color patterns, the Dahlia represents creativity and inspiration, as each bloom is unique and artistically formed.
- Change and Transition: As dahlias bloom in a wide array of colors and shapes throughout the growing season, they symbolize the constant changes in life and the ability to thrive amidst them.
- Dignity and Elegance: The Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' specifically, with its regal bearing and poised appearance, symbolizes a strong sense of self-respect and nobility.
- Commitment and Eternal Bonds: Due to their intricate layers and the number of petals, dahlias can represent strong bonds and a commitment to someone or something that lasts forever.
WaterDahlias, including the 'Tahoma Lady Oh' variety, prefer consistent moisture without being waterlogged. Water your dahlia deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1-2 gallons per plant each time, depending on your soil type and climate. It's important to water the plants at their base to keep moisture off the foliage and prevent fungal diseases. During hot, dry periods you might need to water more frequently, ensuring the soil stays moist but not saturated. Reduce watering as the plant prepares to go dormant after flowering is complete.
LightDahlias, like 'Tahoma Lady Oh,' thrive in full sunlight. They need a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct sunshine daily to grow vigorously and produce vibrant blooms. The ideal spot for planting your dahlia is in an area that receives uninterrupted sunlight throughout the day, as shaded conditions can lead to leggy plants and reduced flowering.
Temperature'Tahoma Lady Oh' dahlias perform best in temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can survive a range up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged heat can stress the plant. They are sensitive to frost, with a minimum survival temperature just above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and should not be planted outside until all danger of frost has passed.
PruningRegularly pruning 'Tahoma Lady Oh' dahlias promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering. Prune off the bottom leaves to improve air circulation, deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms, and cut back the plant after the first frost in fall. The best time to prune is early in the growing season to shape the plant and create a bushier growth habit. Pruning should be done as needed throughout the flowering season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, between 6.5 and 7.0. The best soil mix for Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' can be created by combining two parts garden soil, one part peat moss or well-rotted compost, and one part perlite or coarse sand to enhance drainage.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Tahoma Lady Oh,' are typically grown from tubers each year. They do not require frequent repotting as they are dug up at the end of each growing season, stored away from frost, and then replanted in the spring once the danger of frost has passed.
Humidity & MistingDahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' prefers moderate humidity levels. They do not thrive in excessively humid environments which can promote fungal diseases. Outdoor ambient humidity common in temperate climates is generally suitable for these plants.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and ample space.
Outdoor
Plant in sunny spot, enrich soil, and keep well-watered.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' begins its life as a tuber planted in fertile, well-drained soil after the last frost of the season. The tuber sprouts and a young shoot emerges from the ground, developing into a sturdy stem with leaves. As the plant matures, it forms buds that will blossom into the characteristic large, vibrant flowers of the dahlia during the summer. After flowering, the dahlia enters a phase of senescence in the fall where the aerial parts begin to wither as temperatures drop. The tubers can be left in the ground in warmer climates or dug up, stored in a cool, dry place, and overwintered to protect from frost in colder areas. In the following spring, the stored tubers are replanted, or the overwintered tubers re-sprout, completing the cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Dahlia 'Tahoma Lady Oh' (Ba), commonly known as Dahlia, is typically propagated by division, a process best performed in late winter or early spring, just before new growth begins. For division, the tuber clumps of the parent plant are carefully lifted from the ground after the foliage has died back and the soil has dried out a bit. Using a sharp, clean knife, the clump is then split into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has at least one eye, or growth point. These divisions are then planted directly into the garden or into pots with well-draining soil at a depth of about 6 inches (approximately 15 centimeters). The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to encourage the development of roots and shoots. After a few weeks, the young plants will begin to grow and can eventually produce flowers identical to the parent plant. It's a straightforward, reliable method favored by many gardeners for its simplicity and effectiveness in multiplying Dahlia plants.
