Dahlia Dahlia 'Zone Ten' (PBR) (Sin/dwb)
ABOUT
Dahlia 'Zone Ten' presents an eye-catching addition to any garden with its vibrant and dynamic appearance. This variety of dahlia boasts a stunning display of flowers characterized by their unique and elaborate form. Each bloom reveals an intricate collage of petals that typically display multiple layers, offering a lush, full look that is both intricate and inviting. The petals themselves may exhibit a variation in color, often with gradients or contrasting edges that capture the eye and present a dramatic visual display. The flowers are supported by sturdy stems that emerge from a bed of green foliage. The leaves are typically a deep green hue with a pronounced shape that often has a serrated or toothed edge to embellish the plant's overall lushness. Together, the stems and foliage create a robust backdrop for the striking blooms, emphasizing their color and form. Dahlia 'Zone Ten' is a perennial plant, and given the right conditions, it will return year after year to grace the garden with its breathtaking flowers. The blooms can be admired for their aesthetic appeal from summer to the first frosts, during the growing season when the plant reaches its full ornamental potential. Please note that care should be taken with dahlias during particularly cold weather, as the tubers are susceptible to frost damage. In such climates, it is common practice to lift and store the tubers over winter to replant the following spring, thus ensuring the continued vibrancy and beauty of Dahlia 'Zone Ten' in the garden.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Zone Ten Dahlia
Common names
Dahlia 'Zone Ten'
ToxicityTo humans
Dahlias are generally not toxic to humans. There's no widespread evidence to suggest that the Dahlia 'Zone Ten' has poisonous properties if ingested. However, it's always possible for individuals to have personal allergies or sensitivities to any plant, so it is not advisable to consume them.
To pets
Dahlias, including the Dahlia 'Zone Ten', are not known to be toxic to pets such as dogs and cats. They are not listed among the commonly recognized poisonous plants for domestic animals. Therefore, ingestion of dahlia plants should not cause poisoning in pets, although as with any non-food item, consuming plant material can potentially cause mild stomach upset or an allergic reaction in some pets.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Flower color
Varies
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, including 'Zone Ten', are known for their stunning and vibrant blooms which add aesthetic value to gardens and landscapes.
- Variety of Colors: Dahlia 'Zone Ten' comes in different hues, allowing gardeners to choose flowers that suit their color scheme.
- Extended Blooming Season: Dahlias typically have a lengthy flowering period from summer into fall, providing long-lasting garden interest.
- Attracts Pollinators: These flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators, promoting biodiversity.
- Cut Flowers: Dahlias, such as 'Zone Ten', are excellent for cutting gardens and make beautiful arrangements with their large, showy flowers.
- Easy to Grow: Dahlias are generally easy to cultivate and can be grown in a variety of climates and soil types.
- Breeding Achievements: 'Zone Ten' with Plant Breeders' Rights (PBR) often represents horticultural innovation and superior garden performance.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dahlia petals can be used in dyeing fabric, imparting a range of colors from pinks to yellows depending on mordants used.
- The hollow stems of dahlias can serve as natural straws or can be used in plant-based art projects for children.
- Dahlia tubers can be carved into stamps for craft projects, creating beautiful patterns and designs on paper or textiles.
- You can use dried dahlia blooms for potpourri, adding color and a mild scent to your mix.
- Petals of dahlias can be crystallized with egg whites and sugar to be used as an edible decoration on cakes and desserts.
- In some traditions, dahlias are used as offerings in spiritual or religious ceremonies due to their vibrant colors and impressive blooms.
- Dahlia blooms can be pressed and framed, creating beautiful and natural artwork to decorate the home.
- Dahlias can be used in bird feeders, adding style to bird-friendly gardens while feeding nectar-eating birds when the flowers are in bloom.
- Dried dahlia stems can act as organic kindling for fires in outdoor fire pits, being both practical and a use for pruning waste.
- Fresh dahlia flowers can be used to create a colorful and biodegradable confetti alternative for celebrations.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiDahlias are not commonly referenced in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityDahlias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Elegance and Dignity: Due to its sophisticated and intricate form, the Dahlia represents a lasting grace and a sense of high-society.
- Change and Diversity: Dahlia flowers come in multiple colors and forms, symbolizing the embrace of uniqueness and change.
- Commitment and Bond: Dahlia's sturdy stems and full blooms are often associated with long-term commitments and strong bonds in relationships.
- Inner Strength: The Dahlia's diverse growing conditions and their ability to thrive in various climates represent inner strength and the ability to withstand challenging circumstances.
- Creative Expression: The vast variety of Dahlias is symbolic of creativity and the inspiration to find beauty in diversity.
WaterDahlias, such as the 'Zone Ten' variety, thrive when watered deeply two to three times per week, depending on weather conditions. The goal is to provide a deep watering that reaches the roots rather than just wetting the surface. In the heat of the summer, they may require more frequent watering, especially if the soil begins to dry out. A good approach is to provide about 1-2 gallons of water per plant during each watering session. Always avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal diseases; instead, water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry.
LightDahlias like 'Zone Ten' perform best in full sun, which means they should receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Plant them in a location that has unobstructed exposure to the sun for most of the day to ensure optimal growth and flowering. Partial shade is acceptable, especially in extremely hot climates, where some afternoon shade can prevent overheating.
TemperatureDahlias, including the 'Zone Ten' variety, thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F but can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 90°F. They do not tolerate frost; hence it is essential to plant them after the danger of frost has passed in the spring. Ideal growing conditions for 'Zone Ten' Dahlias are warm days and cooler nights.
PruningPruning Dahlias like 'Zone Ten' encourages more blooms and maintains plant shape. Pinch out the growing tip after the plant has formed four sets of leaves to promote bushier growth and more flowers. Throughout the blooming season, regularly deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Post-first frost, cut back the foliage to a few inches above the soil line as part of the overwintering process.
CleaningAs needed
SoilDahlias prefer well-draining soil with rich organic matter. A mix of loam, peat, and coarse sand in equal parts is ideal. Incorporate compost for nutrients, and ensure a pH of 6.5 to 7.0 for Dahlia 'Zone Ten'.
RepottingDahlias, including Dahlia 'Zone Ten', should be repotted annually. Ideally, repotting should be done in the spring as new growth begins.
Humidity & MistingDahlias thrive in moderate humidity conditions. A humidity level between 40-60% is ideal for Dahlia 'Zone Ten'.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Dahlia 'Zone Ten' in bright indirect light and ensure good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant Dahlia 'Zone Ten' in full sun, in well-drained soil, after frost risk.
Hardiness zone
8-11 USDA
Life cycleDahlia 'Zone Ten' begins its life cycle when a tuber is planted in well-drained, fertile soil in early spring, after the last frost has passed. The tuber will sprout stems and leaves as the temperatures increase, entering its vegetative growth stage where it focuses on developing a robust foliage system. During the summer months, the plant enters the flowering stage, producing richly colored blooms that can be a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the cultivar. Once pollinated, the flowers may produce seeds, although many dahlias are propagated via division of the tubers rather than grown from seed. As fall approaches and temperatures drop, the above-ground part of the plant will die back, signaling the beginning of dormancy. Throughout the winter, the tuber remains dormant underground until the cycle is ready to begin anew with the return of warmer spring temperatures.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Dahlia 'Zone Ten', commonly known as Dahlia, can be propagated through a variety of methods, including division, cuttings, and seeds. However, the most popular method for propagation of dahlias is by division. This typically takes place in the spring when the plants are just beginning to sprout new growth. The tubers, which are the thickened underground storage organs of the dahlia, are lifted from the ground and gently separated, ensuring that each division has at least one eye or bud. These divided tubers can then be planted in well-drained soil, with the eye positioned just above the soil surface. It's important to maintain consistent moisture levels without overwatering to encourage healthy root and shoot development. Division not only helps to propagate new plants but also rejuvenates old clumps, promoting more vigorous growth and better flowering.
