Dahlia Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' (Col)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' is a stunning plant with a showy display. Its flowers are its most striking feature, boasting a deep crimson color that demands attention. These blooms are characterized by their layered petals that create a full, almost fluffy appearance, giving each flower a substantial presence that can infuse any garden with color and vibrancy. The petals are known for their slight curvature which contributes to the flower's overall form, often resembling a ruffled ball. The leaves of the Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' are typically bright green which provides a beautiful contrast to the bold crimson of the flowers. These leaves are typically compound with an intricate vein pattern that is both attractive and functional, aiding in photosynthesis. The plant's foliage adds to its lush and vigorous appearance, creating a rich backdrop for the flowers. The stems of the 'Trelyn Crimson' tend to be sturdy, which is necessary to support the weight of the large blooms. These stems might have a green hue that matches the leaves, or they may exhibit a slight reddish tinge that echoes the color of the flowers, thus tying together the whole appearance of the plant. Together, the robust flowers, contrasting leaves, and strong stems make the Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' a plant that exudes a certain regality and drama, making it a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers seeking to add a pop of color and a touch of elegance to their floral arrangements or gardens.
About this plant
- Names
Synonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia.
Common names
Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' (Col)
- Toxicity
To humans
Dahlias, including the 'Trelyn Crimson' variety, are generally not considered toxic to humans. These plants are not known to contain any substances at significant levels that would typically cause poisoning if touched or ingested. Therefore, no common symptoms of poisoning or significant consequences are expected from coming into contact with or consuming parts of the Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson'.
To pets
Dahlias, including the 'Trelyn Crimson' variety, are also generally considered non-toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. Ingesting parts of the plant should not cause any severe poisoning symptoms. However, individual animals might have sensitivities or allergic reactions, and consuming plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, primarily if consumed in large quantities. If your pet has consumed a Dahlia and is showing adverse symptoms, consult with a veterinarian.
- Characteristics
Life cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Crimson
Height
4 feet 3 inches (130 cm)
Spread
2 feet (60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
- General Benefits
- Colorful Blooms: The Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' provides vibrant crimson flowers that enhance the visual appeal of any garden space.
- Attracts Pollinators: This plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination and supporting biodiversity.
- Versatile Gardening: Dahlias are suitable for borders, flower beds, and containers, offering gardening flexibility.
- Long Blooming Season: They have a lengthy blooming period from midsummer to the first frost, ensuring a colorful garden for an extended time.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlias are excellent for cutting gardens, providing long-lasting and attractive blooms for indoor arrangements.
- Easy Propagation: Tubers can be divided in spring to create new plants, making it easy and cost-effective to expand one’s collection or share with friends.
- Medical Properties
This plant is not used for medical purposes.
- Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
- Other Uses
- Dahlias such as 'Trelyn Crimson' can be used as a natural fabric dye, providing a range of colors from soft pastels to vibrant hues depending on the concentration.
- In photography, the vivid petals can serve as a natural backdrop or contrast for macro photography, enhancing the subject's details.
- Dahlia blooms can be pressed and included in handmade paper, giving texture and floral patterns to the final product.
- As a temporary watercolor paint, the flower's pigments can be used in art projects for a unique, organic tone.
- Culinary presentations can be heightened through the use of dahlias as edible decorations, provided they are unsprayed and confirmed non-toxic.
- In crafting, the stems and petals may be used to create natural potpourri mixes with other dried flowers and spices.
- The flower can act as a muse in poetry and creative writing, symbolizing commitment and a bond that lasts forever.
- During festive seasons, dahlias can be strung into garlands for decorating spaces with a touch of natural elegance.
- The petals can be used to make biodegradable confetti for celebrations, as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials.
- In landscaping, grouping dahlias together can create a natural barrier or division within garden spaces due to their dense growth habit.
Interesting Facts
- Feng Shui
Dahlias are not commonly referenced in Feng Shui practice.
- Zodiac Sign Compitability
Dahlias are not used in astrology practice.
- Plant Symbolism
- Elegance and Dignity: With its sophisticated and vibrant crimson petals, the Dahlia represents a lasting grace and a sense of high values and self-worth.
- Change and Variety: Dahlias come in numerous varieties and colors, symbolizing a spirit of adventure, diversity, and change.
- Commitment and Bond: Given as a gesture of a long-lasting commitment, the Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' could be reflective of a strong, passionate bond that stands the test of time.
- Creative Influence: The Dahlia is also representative of an inner strength and creativity, an encouragement for personal growth through creative endeavors.
- Water
Dahlias require consistent moisture, so water your Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' thoroughly whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Typically, this means watering once or twice a week, but the frequency may increase during particularly hot or windy periods. Apply water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. During the growing season, a dahlia may need about 1 to 2 gallons of water each week, depending on weather conditions. Always adjust watering based on rainfall, as overwatering can be as detrimental as underwatering.
- Light
Dahlias thrive in full sun, so the Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' should be placed in a spot where it gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. Avoid shaded areas as insufficient light can lead to poor bloom development. The best spot for your dahlia is in an area with bright, direct light but protected from intense midday sun in regions with very hot climates.
- Temperature
Dahlias prefer a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' can survive temperature dips down to about 40 degrees Fahrenheit, but sustained cold can damage or kill the plant. Ideal growing conditions include warm days and cooler nights, avoiding extremes on either end of the temperature spectrum.
- Pruning
Pruning your Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' helps direct energy to the most vigorous blooms and promotes better air circulation within the plant. Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming and cut back any weak or damaged stems. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune the dahlias every few weeks during the blooming season to keep the plant looking its best and to promote larger flowers.
- Cleaning
As needed
- Soil
Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' thrives best in fertile, well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.0. A balanced mix of loamy soil amended with compost and peat moss can enhance growth. Perlite or sand added to the mix can improve drainage.
- Repotting
Dahlias, including the 'Trelyn Crimson', should ideally be repotted annually, usually after winter dormancy before the new growth begins in early spring.
- Humidity & Misting
Dahlias like 'Trelyn Crimson' prefer moderate humidity levels. Strive to maintain humidity around 60-70% for optimal growth, but they are adaptable to lower humidity conditions.
- Suitable locations
Indoor
Ensure bright light, ample watering, and pot with drainage.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and deadhead regularly.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA.
- Life cycle
The Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson', commonly known simply as Dahlia, begins its life cycle when a gardener plants a tuber in well-drained soil after the risk of frost has passed. The tuber germinates, and a sprout emerges from the soil, growing into a young plant with characteristic foliage. Throughout the growing season, the plant continues to develop, producing a robust stem and vibrant, crimson flowers that make it a popular ornamental specimen. After flowering, if the blooms are not deadheaded, they will eventually wilt and the plant will set seed. As cold weather approaches, the Dahlia enters a period of dormancy; the aerial parts die back and the tuber overwinters in the soil, or it is dug up, stored, and protected from freezing temperatures. In the following spring, the cycle can begin anew with the planting of either saved tubers or the new ones produced from the previous season’s growth.
- Propogation
Propogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method to propagate a Dahlia 'Trelyn Crimson' is through division of tubers. The optimal time to undertake this process is in the spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, carefully lift the dahlia clumps from the ground after the foliage has died back post-frost. Using a sharp knife, divide the clump ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud from which new growth can emerge. It's important to handle the tubers gently to prevent damage. Once the tubers are divided, they can be planted immediately in well-draining soil, positioned such that the eyes are just below the soil surface, approximately 2 to 4 inches deep (5 to 10 centimeters). This method allows for a straightforward and reliable means of increasing one's dahlia collection while preserving the genetic characteristics of the 'Trelyn Crimson'.