Dahlia Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' (C)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' is a stunning cultivar known for its eye-catching flowers and vibrant colors. The blooms are characterized by their rich, velvety red petals, which can sometimes appear almost burgundy or maroon under different lighting conditions. Each flower is rather substantial, showcasing a double formation of petals that create a full and layered look, resembling a pinwheel or intricate rosette. The outer petals tend to be larger and may slightly recurve towards the stem, adding to the dynamic appearance of the bloom. At the center of the flower, the petal layers become increasingly tighter and more numerous, often creating a striking contrast with the deep red as they occasionally show hints of yellow or gold at their bases, giving depth and complexity to the floral display. The foliage provides a lush and vibrant backdrop to the flowers, with deep green leaves that are typically pinnate with pointed leaflets, arranged in an orderly pattern that offers aesthetic structure to the plant. The overall impression of the Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' is one of drama and elegance. Its blooms stand out with a rich palette and lush petal arrangement, making it a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements where a touch of luxurious color and texture is desired. The plant exudes a stately beauty, with the regal blooms held aloft on sturdy stems, each one a work of horticultural art. It's essential to note that while the description focuses on aesthetics, the physical structure and resilience of the plant contribute to its presence and impact, making it a beloved addition to any setting where floral magnificence is appreciated.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Weston Pirate'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Weston Pirate', are not considered toxic to humans. There are no widely recognized symptoms of poisoning from dahlias because they are generally regarded as non-toxic. Therefore, ingesting parts of this plant is not commonly associated with serious health consequences.
To pets
Dahlias, such as the Dahlia 'Weston Pirate', are typically considered non-toxic to pets as well. They are not known to cause serious illness or symptoms of poisoning if pets ingest parts of the plant. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion may potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to irritation or the novelty of the ingested material.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Red
Height
4 feet 48 inches (120 cm)
Spread
2 feet 24 inches (60 cm)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' offers vibrant and colorful blooms that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Versatility: It can be used in a variety of garden settings, including borders, containers, and as cut flowers for indoor arrangements.
- Pollinator Attraction: The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Long Blooming Season: It has a prolonged flowering period, providing color from summer through to the first frosts of autumn.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlia tubers can be divided to create new plants, making it easy for gardeners to propagate and share.
- Garden Design: Their height and structure offer great opportunities for creating depth and texture in garden design.
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: The vibrant colors and intricate petals of dahlia make it an excellent subject for photographers seeking to capture the beauty of nature.
- Educational tool: Dahlias can be used in educational settings to teach botany and the study of flowering plant reproductive systems due to their diverse forms and colors.
- Art inspiration: Artists often draw inspiration from the striking appearance of dahlias for paintings, drawings, and textile designs.
- Color dye source: Historically, some plants have been used to extract color dyes, and dahlias may potentially be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or art projects.
- Wedding decor: Dahlias are frequently used in wedding bouquets and decorations because of their large blooms and wide range of colors.
- Floating decorations: Dahlia flowers can be floated in bowls of water to create elegant centerpieces for events or home decor.
- Culinary decoration: Edible varieties of dahlias can be used to adorn cakes and desserts, though always ensure they are safe and pesticide-free before use.
- Gardening competitions: Dahlias, including 'Weston Pirate,' are commonly entered into gardening and flower shows for their impressive blooms and variety.
- Printmaking: The interesting shapes of dahlia petals can be used in printmaking to create unique patterns and designs on paper or fabric.
- Companion planting: Dahlias can be planted among vegetables and other flowers as part of a companion planting strategy to enhance overall garden health and aesthetics.
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 and Dignity: Dahlia 'Weston Pirate', like all dahlias, is often considered a symbol of elegance and dignity due to its sophisticated flower form and vibrant colors.
- Commitment and Bond: The dahlia’s robust petals and ability to return each year can represent a lasting commitment or a strong bond in a relationship.
- Diversity and Variety: With its wide range of colors and forms, the dahlia stands for diversity and embracing uniqueness.
- Change and Transformation: As a flower that blossoms in late summer and into fall, the dahlia can signify change and the ability to adapt to new situations.
- Creative Expression: Dahlias’ intricate petals and striking appearance make them symbols of creativity and artistic expression.
WaterDahlias, including 'Weston Pirate', require consistent moisture but do not tolerate soggy soil. During the growing season, it's best to water the plants deeply once to twice a week, allowing the water to reach down to the roots. Depending on weather conditions, this could equate to about 1 to 2 gallons per week per plant. It's important to avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant. During periods of extended heat or dryness, you may need to water more frequently to maintain moist but not waterlogged soil.
LightDahlias like 'Weston Pirate' thrive in full sun conditions, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for them is in an area that receives unfiltered sunlight for most of the day. They can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can reduce blooming and might lead to weaker, leggier plants.
TemperatureThe ideal temperature range for Dahlias such as 'Weston Pirate' is between 60°F and 75°F. They can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F at night but should not be exposed to frost, which can damage the plants. During the hotter parts of the summer, when temperatures exceed 75°F, providing some afternoon shade can help to protect the plants from excessive heat.
PruningDahlias, including the 'Weston Pirate' variety, benefit from regular deadheading to encourage continuous blooming throughout the season. Prune off spent flowers as well as any damaged or diseased stems. At the beginning of the season, you can also pinch back the main stem when it's about 16 inches tall to promote bushier growth and more blooms. The best time for more extensive pruning is late fall or early winter after the first frost when you cut back the old foliage before storage.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0. A mix of garden soil, compost, and peat moss or sand is ideal for 'Weston Pirate'. Ensure proper drainage to prevent tuber rot.
RepottingDahlias, such as 'Weston Pirate', don’t need frequent repotting as they are typically grown as annuals. Repotting is done annually when tubers are planted in spring after the last frost.
Humidity & MistingDahlias like 'Weston Pirate' prefer moderate humidity levels. They thrive outdoors where they can receive natural airflow without the need for specific humidity control.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure a sunny spot, stake stems, and keep soil moist for dahlias.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, fertile soil, stake, and keep well-watered.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life of a Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' begins when a tuber is planted in the ground after the last frost, when the soil has warmed sufficiently. It sprouts and forms a seedling that will grow into a mature plant with a sturdy stem and bright, ornamental flowers that range in color. Throughout the growing season, the dahlia will continue producing blooms, which can be deadheaded to encourage further flowering. As it matures, the plant stores energy in its tubers underground, which are vital for its perennial growth cycle. As temperatures cool and the first frost arrives, the above-ground foliage of the dahlia dies back, signaling the time to dig up and store the tubers in a cool, dry place for overwintering. In the following spring, the cycle starts anew when the stored tubers are replanted, giving rise to a new generation of Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' plants.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Dahlia 'Weston Pirate' is by dividing the tubers in late winter or early spring just before the new growth begins. To propagate by division, gently dig up the clump of tubers and brush off any excess soil without damaging the tubers. Look for the 'eyes', or growth points, similar to those on a potato. Using a sharp, sterile knife, cut the tuber into sections ensuring that each section has at least one eye. Let the cut surfaces dry and callous over for a day or two to prevent rotting. Plant the tuber sections about 6 inches (15.24 cm) deep, laying them horizontally in well-draining soil, and water them in. As spring temperatures warm-up, new shoots will emerge from the eyes, and the dahlia will grow and flourish throughout the summer.
