White Dahlia Dahlia 'White Ballet' (D)
ABOUT
The Dahlia 'White Ballet' is a striking ornamental plant known for its elegant and vibrant blooms. Its appearance is characterized by a lush display of pristine white flowers that boast a classic, almost ethereal beauty. The petals are arranged in a perfect symphony of layers that create a full, rounded form, contributing to a sense of depth and volume. The flowers have a distinct symmetrical geometry that is typical of dahlias, with each petal curling gracefully at the tips, adding a delicate touch to the floral display. The overall look of the plant is enhanced by its deep green foliage, which forms a lush backdrop, accentuating the whiteness of the blooms. The leaves are typically broad and have a slightly serrated edge, contributing to the plant's robust and hearty appearance. The contrast between the bright white flowers and the verdant green leaves creates a spectacular visual impact that can enliven any garden space. The 'White Ballet' dahlia is a popular choice among gardeners and flower enthusiasts for its purity of color and the radiance it brings to a garden landscape. Whether used as a standalone feature or as part of a mixed border, this plant is sure to capture attention and add a touch of sophistication to its surroundings. Its blooms are also commonly used in floral arrangements and bouquets, where the clean lines and simplicity of the white petals stand out, providing a stunning effect.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
White Ballet Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia pinnata 'White Ballet', Dahlia x hortensis 'White Ballet'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including 'White Ballet', are generally not toxic to humans. However, handling the plant, especially the tubers, can sometimes cause skin irritation due to sensitivity or allergic reaction in some individuals. Ingestion is not typically associated with serious poisoning, but it is not advisable to eat any part of the Dahlia plant as it may cause mild stomach upset in sensitive persons.
To pets
Dahlias, such as 'White Ballet', are also considered non-toxic to pets. While they are not known to cause serious harm if ingested, consumption of the plant may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as vomiting or diarrhea, in dogs or cats. As with any non-food plant, it's best to prevent pets from eating dahlias to avoid potential stomach upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
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: Dahlia 'White Ballet' adds elegance to the garden with its pristine white blooms and attractive, lush green foliage.
- Pollinator Attraction: This variety attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatile Landscaping: Dahlia 'White Ballet' can be used in borders, beds, and as a focal point in gardens for structure and color.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms make excellent cut flowers for vases and floral arrangements due to their long vase life and beauty.
- Seasonal Interest: Dahlias bloom from mid-summer to the first frost, providing extended interest in the garden.
- Ease of Growth: Dahlias can be easily grown in a variety of climates as long as they are provided with well-draining soil and adequate sunlight.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlias can be used in dye production; their vibrant petals can provide natural dyes for fabrics and crafts.
- Dahlia tubers are sometimes used in vegetarian cuisine as a source of fructose and have a texture akin to sweet potatoes when cooked.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can be crafted into organic, biodegradable straws for beverages.
- Floricultural shows and competitions often feature dahlias like 'White Ballet' for their stunning shapes and colors.
- The petals of dahlias can be crystallized with sugar to create edible decorations for cakes and desserts.
- Dahlia blooms are utilized in photographic art for their geometric patterns and bold colors, offering inspiration to photographers.
- Gardeners sometimes use dahlias as trap crops to distract pests from more vulnerable plants due to their hardy nature.
- As ornamentals, dahlias are popular in wedding bouquets and floral arrangements, symbolizing commitment and a bond that lasts forever.
- 'White Ballet' dahlia petals can be used to make a natural confetti, which is biodegradable and less harmful to the environment than plastic alternatives.
- The plant's structure has been studied by botanists and artists alike for its illustration in botanical art and educational materials on plant morphology.
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 Purity: The pristine color of the 'White Ballet' Dahlia symbolizes a graceful elegance and purity, often representing a fresh start or a clean slate.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias, in general, are symbols of commitment and a lasting bond, making them popular choices for wedding arrangements or as gifts between partners.
- Dignity: The stately presence of the Dahlia 'White Ballet' can be seen as a symbol of dignity and composure, making it a respectful flower for many different occasions.
- Change and Variety: The Dahlia species is known for its vast diversity in color, form, and size, and so it often stands for change, diversity, and variety in life.
- Creative Expression: The intricate petals and patterns of Dahlias may signify a flair for creativity and hence inspire artistic expression.
WaterDahlias, including 'White Ballet', require a consistent watering schedule, particularly during the growing season. They should be watered deeply a couple of times a week, more frequently if you're in a hot, dry climate. Aim to provide at least one inch of water each week, which is approximately 0.623 gallons for a regular-sized plant. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of disease, and instead water at the base of the plant. During periods of rainfall, reduce your watering accordingly to prevent overwatering.
LightDahlias like 'White Ballet' thrive in full sunlight. They need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day to bloom well. The ideal spot for dahlias is in a sunny garden location that receives morning sunlight and partial shade during the hottest part of the afternoon, which helps to protect the blooms from intense heat.
TemperatureDahlias, including the 'White Ballet', prefer warm temperatures and do not tolerate cold well. They need temperatures above 50 degrees Fahrenheit to grow and should not be planted until all danger of frost has passed. Ideal temperatures for dahlias range between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. They can survive up to a maximum of about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but prolonged heat can stress the plants.
PruningPruning dahlias, such as 'White Ballet', is essential for robust growth and plentiful blooms. Pinch back the tips of the main stem when the plant is about 16 inches tall to encourage bushiness. Throughout the growing season, deadhead spent flowers to promote further blooming. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Do this annually to maintain the health and shape of the plant.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias thrive in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH level around 6.5 to 7.0. A good mix for Dahlia 'White Ballet' would be equal parts garden soil, peat moss, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and aeration.
RepottingDahlia 'White Ballet' should be repotted annually, best done in the spring just as new growth begins from the tubers.
Humidity & MistingDahlias prefer moderate humidity levels but are adaptable; however, excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and stake the stems for support.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, regular water, deadhead, and provide staking.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleFor the Dahlia 'White Ballet', the life cycle begins with a dormant, tuberous root that is planted after the last frost of the season. The plant then sprouts and a shoot emerges from the tuber, growing into a stem with leaves. As the Dahlia grows, it develops a flowering head, and in the case of 'White Ballet', beautiful white blossoms appear. Once pollinated, these flowers may produce seeds, but Dahlias are more commonly propagated through the division of their tubers. After the flowering season, and as the colder weather approaches, the aerial parts of the plant die back and the plant goes into dormancy. In climates with harsh winters, the tubers are often dug up and stored until the following spring to start the cycle anew.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Propogation: The Dahlia 'White Ballet', often referred to simply as Dahlia, can be effectively propagated during springtime when the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently, typically once soil temperatures approach 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15.6 degrees Celsius). The most popular method of propagation is by dividing tuberous roots, which are clustered beneath the soil like a group of plump, underground fingers. Each division must include at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth emerges, akin to a bud. The tubers are carefully separated with hands or cut with a sharp knife that has been sterilized to prevent disease spread. The freshly cut surfaces are commonly dusted with fungicide powder to protect them from rot and infections. Once prepared, these tubers are planted in well-draining soil, at a depth of about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm), and spaced approximately 18 to 24 inches (46 to 61 cm) apart to allow sufficient room for the plants to grow and thrive.
