Dahlia Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' (Col)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' is known for its striking appearance, characterized by a vibrant display of color and form. The plant produces a profusion of flowers, which are the main attraction. Each bloom presents a dazzling combination of two colors. The base of the petals is a deep, velvety red, which transitions towards the edges to a softer, creamy white. This gradation creates a dramatic contrast that is both bold and elegant. The petals are arranged in a precise, orderly fashion, which is typical of many dahlias. They radiate from the center of the flower in a symmetrical pattern, adding to the plant’s showy nature. The center of each flower bears an 'eye' that is a darker red, lending the plant its name and adding a striking focal point to the blooms. The foliage of the Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' is a lush green, providing a rich backdrop that makes the red and white flowers stand out even more. The leaves are typically shaped, with a slightly serrated edge that gives them a textured appearance. Overall, Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' is a plant that exudes vibrancy through its magnificent flowers. The juxtaposition of red and white across the petals delivers an eye-catching display that can act as a stunning centerpiece in any garden where color and flair are desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' (Col).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the 'Teesbrooke Red Eye', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of any plant material may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in sensitive individuals. It is advisable to avoid eating dahlias or any plant parts not designated as food due to the possibility of individual allergic reactions or gastrointestinal upset.
To pets
Dahlias are typically not toxic to pets. While the 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' dahlia is not known to be poisonous to dogs, cats, or other animals, ingestion of plant material can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. As with humans, it's always best to prevent pets from eating any non-food plants to avoid potential digestive issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
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 - Dahlias add vibrant colors and dynamic shapes to gardens and landscapes, and the 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' is noted for its striking red and white petals.
- Pollinator-Friendly - Dahlias are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, helping to support local ecosystems.
- Extended Blooming Season - With proper care, dahlias can bloom from midsummer to first frost, providing long-lasting garden interest.
- Variety of Uses - Suitable for use in borders, flower beds, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Easy to Grow - Dahlias are known for being relatively easy to cultivate, making them a good choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Breeding Opportunities - Gardeners can crossbreed dahlias to produce new varieties, making the 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' a potential parent for unique hybrids.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia tubers can be used as a substitute for potatoes in cooking, offering a similar texture and taste when boiled or fried.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be used in arts and crafts for making natural straws or for constructing lightweight structures in models.
- Dahlia petals are edible and can add a burst of color and a unique flavor to salads, desserts, and cocktails.
- Dried dahlia petals can be used in potpourri mixes to add fragrance and color to a room.
- The plant's sturdy stems can be fashioned into natural plant stakes to support other plants in the garden.
- Dahlias can be used in dye-making processes; the petals produce a range of colors when boiled and used as natural fabric dyes.
- The symmetry and intricate patterns of dahlia blooms inspire artists and photographers, often serving as a muse for various forms of artwork.
- Dahlia flowers can be used as natural pest control by attracting pollinators and beneficial insects that prey on garden pests.
- Pulverized dahlia tubers can be mixed with clay and other natural ingredients to create a biodegradable planting pot for seedlings.
- At social events, dahlias can be floated in water bowls as an eye-catching centerpiece or decorative element.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not specifically mentioned in traditional Feng Shui practice, but as a flowering plant with vibrant blooms, they can be used to add color, which is associated with the fire element, to an area that needs energizing. Their red flowers particularly could be used in the Fame and Reputation area of the Bagua or the South area of a home to enhance recognition and social luck.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Dahlias are known for their intricate petals and stunning appearance, symbolizing a composed grace and sophistication.
- Change and Diversity: With a variety of forms and colors, Dahlias represent embracing change and the richness of different cultures.
- Creativity: The eye-catching patterns and bright hues of a Dahlia inspire ingenuity and the drive to innovate.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gift, a Dahlia suggests a lasting commitment and a strong bond between two people.
- Inner Strength: The robust nature of the plant, which blooms from summer through fall, signifies resilience and the ability to stand gracefully under pressure.
WaterDahlias require consistent moisture, so it's best to water Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' deeply a couple of times a week, rather than little and often. Provide about 1 to 2 inches of water per week, and make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent rot. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently. The goal is to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It's recommended to use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the base of the plant, which helps to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease.
LightDahlias thrive in full sun, so position your Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' in a spot where it will receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid places that are shaded for a significant part of the day. Proper sunlight is essential for the plant to develop strong stems and vibrant blooms. Too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.
TemperatureDahlias prefer moderate temperatures and grow best when daytime temperatures range from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with cooler night temperatures. They can survive in temperatures as low as 60 degrees Fahrenheit but will stop growing if temperatures exceed 90 degrees for extended periods. Dahlias are sensitive to frost, and both the foliage and tubers can be damaged if exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
PruningPruning is vital for Dahlias to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. For Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye', pinch out the growing tips once the plant reaches about 16 inches tall to promote branching. Remove dead or spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Pruning is best done throughout the growing season as needed. The best time to prune for shaping the plant is in early summer when the plant is in its vigorous growth phase.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' thrives in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. A good soil mix for Dahlias includes equal parts peat moss, potting soil, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility.
RepottingDahlias, including 'Teesbrooke Red Eye', should be repotted annually, usually in the spring when new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' prefer a moderate humidity level but are quite adaptable as long as they are not exposed to prolonged dampness which can cause rot.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light with some direct sun, and keep the soil moist.
Outdoor
Place in full sun, shelter from strong winds, and water regularly.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' begins with the germination of tubers planted in well-drained, fertile soil in early spring after the threat of frost has passed. Emerging shoots signal the growth stage, where leaves and stems develop rapidly with adequate sunlight and moisture. Flower buds form and bloom midsummer to fall, showcasing the characteristic red and white bicolor petals drawing in pollinators. After the first frost, the plant enters senescence, where above-ground growth dies back and the tubers enter dormancy. Gardeners often dig up and overwinter the tubers in a cool, dry place before replanting the following spring. Throughout its life, the Dahlia requires regular watering, feeding, and deadheading to encourage continuous blooming and robust growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Teesbrooke Red Eye' is through tuber division, which is ideally carried out in early spring when the plants are just beginning to sprout from their tubers. To propagate by division, the gardener should carefully uplift the clump of tubers from the ground after the foliage has died back in the fall, and store them in a cool, frost-free place over winter. Once sprouts appear in the spring, each clump can be divided with a sharp, clean knife, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or growing point. The cut surfaces can be allowed to dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rot, before planting the divisions about 4 to 6 inches deep (10 to 15 centimeters) in well-draining soil with the eyes facing upwards. Providing warmth and moisture will encourage the development of a strong root system, setting the stage for a bounty of blooms in the summer and fall.
