Dahlia Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' (Ba)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' brandishes a stunning display of vibrant and intricate flowers that capture the eye. This particular dahlia variety showcases blooms that are noted for their rich coloring, which can include a blend of hues ranging from deep pinks to reds, often with layers of petals that create a dramatic effect. The petals themselves are arranged in an orderly fashion, with the outer ones sometimes curling backwards, giving the blooms a sense of depth and fullness. The plant's foliage is typically a lush, vibrant green, providing a striking contrast to the vivid colors of the flowers. The leaves are of average size and have a shape that may be pointed or slightly jagged on the edges, adding to the overall textural interest of the plant. As a dahlia, 'Westerton Folly' produces its showy blooms on sturdy stems that arise from a central, leafy growth habit. The flowering season for this dahlia typically extends from midsummer through the first frosts of autumn, offering a prolonged period of visual delight in a garden setting. Each individual flower can be a focal point, given its detailed and colorful appearance, making it a popular choice for both cut flower arrangements and outdoor garden displays. Overall, Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' is recognized for its striking flowers that can be a centerpiece in any floral composition, be it in gardens, landscapes, or as cut flowers in vases. Its appearance is characterized by a combination of elegance and bold coloration that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area it occupies.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Garden Dahlia, Dahlia
Common names
There are no synonyms for Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' (Ba), so the basic scientific name is provided: Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' (Ba).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Westerton Folly', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They do not contain substances that are known to poison humans if ingested or touched. Consequently, consuming dahlias or coming into contact with them is not typically associated with any symptoms of poisoning, and therefore there are no expected consequences of ingesting parts of this plant. However, as with any non-edible plant, individual allergic reactions or sensitivities are possible.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Westerton Folly', are also generally regarded as non-toxic to pets. They are not known to contain substances that are harmful to pets like cats and dogs if ingested. Therefore, the ingestion of dahlia plants is not expected to cause symptoms of poisoning in pets, and there are no specific toxicity-related consequences associated with the consumption of parts of this plant. However, it is always wise to discourage pets from eating non-food plants as they may cause gastrointestinal upset or an individual allergic reaction.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
4-5 feet (1.2-1.5 meters)
Spread
2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8-10
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Vibrant Blooms: Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' produces colorful, eye-catching flowers that enhance the beauty of any garden.
- Pollinator Attraction: These flowers are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long Blooming Season: Dahlias have a lengthy flowering period, often from midsummer until the first frosts, offering prolonged visual interest.
- Versatility in Landscaping: This Dahlia can be used in borders, beds, and as a focal point in floral arrangements.
- Wide Range of Colors: Dahlias come in a variety of colors, which can be used to create a diverse and vibrant garden palette.
- Easy to Grow: This plant is relatively easy to cultivate, making it suitable for gardeners of varying experience levels.
- Cut Flowers: They are excellent for cutting gardens, providing material for bouquets and indoor displays.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias like 'Westerton Folly' can be used in the making of natural dyes for fabrics, owing to their vivid and diverse color range.
- The petals of Dahlias can be pressed and included in the craft of making personalized paper or eco-friendly confetti for events and ceremonies.
- The hollow stems of some Dahlia varieties may serve as natural straws or can be used in children's crafts for making whistles.
- Their blooms are sometimes used in floral arrangements to add a sense of drama and structure in large, eye-catching displays in public spaces or events.
- Dahlia flowers can be used in cooking, specifically for garnishing salads, cakes, and desserts with their brightly colored petals.
- In some cultures, Dahlias are incorporated into religious and ceremonial decorations as a symbol of commitment and bond due to their intricate shapes and longevity.
- They can be used in photography projects as a subject to study symmetry and patterns in nature, as their geometric bloom structures are quite distinct.
- Gardeners can use Dahlias to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity in their gardens.
- As a teaching tool, Dahlias can be used to demonstrate plant hybridization and selective breeding practices to students and gardening enthusiasts.
- The robust stems of Dahlias can be creatively used in building small scale structures like model houses or miniature furniture in fairy gardens.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Dahlia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Dahlia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Change and Transition: The dahlia, with its myriad of colors and forms, often symbolizes the journey towards personal growth and change, as dahlias themselves can change dramatically through the course of their development.
- Dignity and Elegance: Their sophisticated bloom structure and stature bestow a sense of grace, making them a symbol of dignity and elegance in the garden.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias can also represent a lasting commitment and an eternal bond between two people, often used to express sentiments of fidelity in romantic relationships.
- Unique Standpoint: With hundreds of different varieties, the dahlia comes to represent individuality and a unique perspective, celebrating our distinctions and differences.
- Warning and Betrayal: Some cultures might associate the dahlia with a sense of betrayal or a warning signal due to their dramatic appearance that could lead to deceptive first impressions.
WaterDahlias require a consistent watering schedule to thrive, especially during their growing season. For 'Westerton Folly', water the plant two to three times a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to apply water directly to the soil, which will help avoid wetting the foliage and reduce the risk of disease. During the active growing season, it’s recommended to provide about 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting for particularly hot or dry weather. In terms of volume, this equates to approximately 0.623 gallons for a square foot per week, assuming the 1-inch guideline is followed.
LightDahlias, including 'Westerton Folly', thrive in locations with full sunshine. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to produce vibrant, healthy blooms. Choose a planting spot that is not shaded during the peak sun hours of the day to ensure your dahlia receives sufficient light.
TemperatureDahlias like 'Westerton Folly' prefer temperatures ranging between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal growth. They can withstand a minimum temperature of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Dahlias are sensitive to frost, so make sure to plant them after the danger of frost has passed in the spring.
PruningPruning dahlias like 'Westerton Folly' is crucial for maintaining a tidy appearance and encouraging more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to promote new blossom growth and cut back any broken or damaged stems. Prune regularly throughout the blooming season, which is usually from midsummer until the first fall frost. Late winter or early spring, when new growth begins to appear, is the best time for more substantial pruning and shaping.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias require well-draining soil with rich organic matter, so a good soil mix for Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' might include equal parts garden soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite or sand to improve drainage. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal for these plants to thrive.
RepottingDahlias do not need to be repotted frequently; rather, they are typically grown from tubers that are planted annually in the spring after the last frost. If growing in containers, Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' tubers should be replaced or divided every 2-3 years to maintain vigor.
Humidity & MistingHumidity is not a critical factor for Dahlias as they tolerate a range of humidity levels. It is more important to maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging for Dahlia 'Westerton Folly'. Ensure the outdoor environment provides good air circulation.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Keep Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' in bright, indirect light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' in full sun, sheltered from strong winds.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Westerton Folly' begins its life cycle as a tuber planted after the threat of frost has passed in spring. The tuber quickly sprouts stems and foliage, growing rapidly in warm, sunny conditions with plentiful moisture and rich soil. By midsummer, the plant starts to produce distinctive flowers that can come in a variety of shapes and color patterns, attracting pollinators to the garden. After flowering, if pollinated, the plant may produce seeds, but Dahlias are more commonly propagated through division of their tubers. As the growing season ends and temperatures drop, the Dahlia 'Westerton Folly' enters a dormant phase; the above-ground growth dies back, and the tuber can be dug up, stored in a cool, dry place over winter, and replanted the following spring. Each year, growers can divide the tubers to increase their stock of Dahlia plants or share with other gardeners.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Dahlia 'Westerton Folly', most commonly known as simply Dahlia, is typically propagated through the division of its tubers. This method is most popular because dahlias produce a clump of tubers that can be easily separated to create new plants. The best time for division and propagation is in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge. To propagate dahlias, gardeners should carefully dig up the clump of tubers after the last frost has passed and the soil has warmed, ensuring to do it before new growth exceeds a couple of inches to minimize damage to the shoots. Each tuber should have at least one eye, which is a bud from which the new dahlia plant will grow. The tubers are cut apart with a sharp, clean knife, and the cut surfaces are typically treated with a fungicide to prevent rot before planting them directly into the soil at a depth of about 6 inches (around 15 centimeters). This simple yet effective method allows the gardener to expand their collection of dahlias or share with fellow enthusiasts.
