Dahlia Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' (S-c)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' is a strikingly beautiful flower that features lush, vibrant petals arranged in a sophisticated pattern. The blooms are a brilliant shade, with petals that have slightly ruffled edges, adding a touch of elegance to the flower. The petals are arranged in a spiraling pattern, emanating from the center of the flower head to create a full, round shape. Each layer of petals is meticulously arranged, overlapping the one beneath it to create a sense of depth and volume. The center of the Dahlia can often display a different hue, adding a pleasant contrast that highlights the complexity of the blossom. The foliage of this plant is also noteworthy, with lush, green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for the spectacular flowers. The leaves have a slightly serrated edge, giving them a textured appearance that complements the smooth lines of the petals. Overall, Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' is a standout plant with its showy blooms that can make a statement in any garden. Its appearance is a testament to the diversity and splendor found in the world of flowers, making it a popular choice for gardeners and floral enthusiasts looking to add a touch of drama and color to their displays.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Dahlia, Garden Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' (S-c).
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias, including the variety 'Witteman's Superba', are generally considered non-toxic to humans. They do not contain substances that are poisonous if ingested. However, sensitivity varies from person to person, and some may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume parts of the flower or tuber. Contact with the skin can cause irritation in individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to the plant.
To pets
Dahlias, inclusive of the variety 'Witteman's Superba', are not toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. If a pet ingests parts of these plants, they are not likely to suffer from poisoning. Nevertheless, as with humans, some pets might display mild gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or vomiting, due to the ingestion of plant material that they are not accustomed to, but it is not a result of toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Pink
Height
4 feet (1.2 meters)
Spread
2 feet (0.6 meters)
Plant type
Bulb
Hardiness zones
8
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: Dahlias are highly prized for their stunning and vibrant blooms that enhance the aesthetics of any garden or landscape.
- Variety of Colors: Dahlias, including Witteman's Superba, come in a wide range of colors, enabling gardeners to create customized color schemes.
- Extended Flowering Season: Dahlias bloom from midsummer to the first frosts, providing long-lasting floral displays.
- Attracts Pollinators: Dahlias are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, supporting local ecosystems.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, containers, and cut flower gardens, Dahlias are versatile and can accommodate different gardening styles.
- Easy Propagation: Dahlias can be easily propagated from tubers, cuttings, or seeds, which allows for replanting and sharing with other gardeners.
- Improves Garden Structure: Dahlias can give structure and height to flower beds with their diverse forms and sizes.
- Culinary Uses: Some dahlia varieties offer edible flowers and tubers, although this should be researched carefully for each specific type.
- Competitive Showing: Dahlias are popular in horticultural shows and competitions due to their impressive blooms and variety.
- Emotional Well-being: The act of gardening and the beauty of Dahlias can contribute to stress reduction and a sense of accomplishment.
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 to produce a natural dye for textiles, yielding colors that can range from earthy tones to more vibrant hues depending on the mordant used.
- In some cultures, dahlia flowers are used in ceremonial garlands and as offerings during religious and spiritual events, as they are considered symbols of inner strength and change.
- Dahlia flowers can be pressed and included in handmade paper to create decorative and unique patterns, often used for crafting and art projects.
- Dahlias can be planted as companion plants in vegetable gardens where their vivid colors can help attract pollinators to increase fruit and vegetable yields.
- The petals of dahlias are edible and can be used to garnish salads, desserts, and cocktails, adding a splash of color and a light, crisp texture.
- With careful cultivation, dahlias can also be used for creating living fences or privacy screens in gardens due to their dense foliage and height when fully grown.
- Dahlias have been used as inspiration in fashion design where their bold colors and patterns influence fabric prints and accessory designs.
- In the culinary world, dahlia petals can be crystallized in sugar and used as elegant edible decorations for cakes and pastries.
- The large, flamboyant blooms of dahlias can be used in float decorations during parades, owing to their size and wide range of vibrant colors.
- In photography, dahlias often serve as a subject for macro photography, showcasing the intricate details and beauty of each bloom.
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: The Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba', commonly known as a dahlia, is a flower that exudes sophistication and grace, representing an elevated sense of self-worth and majesty.
- Change and Diversity: With its wide range of colors and forms, dahlias symbolize the beauty of diversity and are often associated with change and variety in life.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlias are gifted as a symbol of commitment to an idea or to a person, making it a perfect gesture for lasting relationships or to express a strong conviction.
- Inner Strength: Because dahlias thrive in a variety of conditions, they often represent inner strength in the face of adversity and the power to stand out boldly in a crowd.
- Creative Spirit: The intricate petals and striking appearance of dahlias are often connected to creativity and the drive to express oneself in imaginative and unique ways.
WaterDahlias require a consistent watering schedule, aiming to keep the soil moist but not soggy. For the Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba', it's best to water deeply a couple of times a week, providing about one to two gallons per plant each week, depending on weather conditions. Reduce watering frequency to once a week or less during cooler or rainy periods. Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to disease. During peak blooming season, they may need more water, so adjust accordingly.
LightDahlias thrive in a location with full sun exposure, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. The Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' should be planted in a spot where it will receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Partial shade is acceptable, particularly in hot climates, but may reduce blooming.
TemperatureDahlias prefer a temperature range between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. The Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba' can survive a minimum temperature of about 50°F but should not be exposed to frost conditions. The tubers should be lifted or protected if temperatures drop below this point as cold can damage or kill the plant.
PruningRegular pruning encourages Dahlias to produce more blooms and maintain a tidy appearance. For the Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba', deadheading, or removing spent flowers, is crucial to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. Cut back the stems of spent flowers to the next set of leaves. Pruning should be done throughout the blooming season, usually from mid-summer until fall.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias require a well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of around 6.5. A mix composed of equal parts garden soil, peat moss or compost, and perlite or sand would provide an ideal growing medium. You can also add a slow-release fertilizer to the mix to enhance nutrient content.
RepottingDahlias, such as 'Witteman's Superba', don't necessarily need to be repotted as they are typically grown from tubers that are planted directly into the ground each spring. After frost, tubers are dug up, stored for winter, and replanted the following season.
Humidity & MistingDahlias thrive in moderate humidity conditions, typically between 40-60%. They do not require high humidity and should be grown in a location where air circulation is good to prevent issues with mold or fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlias in a well-lit room and keep soil moist.
Outdoor
Full sun, rich soil, consistent watering, and staking for support.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Witteman's Superba' begins its cycle in spring when the tuberous roots are planted after the last frost, as the soil warms up. The plant then develops a strong stem and foliage system, with the foliage sprouting from the nodes on the stem in a spiral pattern. Around mid-summer, it starts producing its first flower buds, which will eventually bloom into the characteristic large and vibrant flowers known for Dahlias. After blooming throughout the summer and into early fall, the flowers eventually wilt and the plant prepares for dormancy. With the first frost, the aerial parts of the plant die back, and the tubers must be dug up and stored in a cool, frost-free place over the winter. The stored tubers are then ready to be replanted the following spring, thus repeating the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-summer
The most popular method for propagating Dahlia 'Witteman's Superba', known to many simply as Dahlia, involves the division of tubers. This process should ideally be undertaken in the spring, just as the new growth begins to emerge from the tuber. Gardeners can divide the tubers by using a clean, sharp knife to cut through the tuber ensuring that each division has at least one eye, which is a point on the tuber from which new growth will sprout. Divisions should be allowed to dry for a day or two to form a callous over the cuts, which helps to prevent rot. The divided tubers can then be planted about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) deep in well-draining soil, with the eye facing upwards, and spaced about 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters) apart to provide sufficient room for growth.
