Dahlia is a genus of bushy, tuberous, herbaceous perennial plants native to Mexico and Central America. They are grown as annuals in some regions with cold winters. There are 42 species of dahlia, with hybrids commonly grown as garden plants.
Dahlia × hortensis Care
Dahlia hortensis
What is the plant
Dahlia hortensis is a member of the Asteraceae family of dicotyledonous plants, its garden relatives thus include the sunflower, daisy, chrysanthemum, and zinnia. Flower forms of the plant are variable, with one head per stem; these can be as small as 5 cm (2 in) diameter or up to 30 cm (1 ft) ("dinner plate"). The stems are leafy, ranging in height from as low as 30 cm (12 in) to more than 1.8–2.4 m (6–8 ft). The majority of species do not produce scented flowers. The dahlia was declared the national flower of Mexico in 1963. The tubers were grown as a food crop by the Aztecs, but this use largely died out after the Spanish Conquest. Attempts to introduce the tubers as a food crop in Europe were unsuccessful.
If you’ve recognized any mistakes feel free to notify us about it. This would help us to provide only the best-quality information.
Humidity
Normal
Lighting
Full Sun
Temperature
21°C - 27°C
Hardiness zone
8 - 11
Difficulty
Medium
Hibernation
Cold Period
How to Care for the Plant
Water
Always water when the ground is dried 2-3 cm low. Check with your fingers, whether there is demand for water. Directly water the root disc without wetting the blossoms or leaves.
Fertilizer
If the dahlia receives horn shavings as a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer in the planting holes while planting, the need is satisfied for the first 4-6 weeks. After this every 3 to 4 weeks put on the earth leaf compost, bark humus, chicken manure, or another similar organic fertilizer. Superficially work the material in and water.
Sunlight
To flower well, dahlias need full sun, preferably at least 8 hours. In hotter climates, they will do better with some afternoon shade.
Ease your plant care routine with PlantIn's personalized system.
Soil
Dahlias like a rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter and a fairly neutral soil pH around 6.5. Mulching will help keep the roots moist. They are shallow rooted and can dry out quickly.
Temperature
Ground temperature should reach 60°F. Wait until all danger of spring frost is past before planting. These plants can be injured at temperatures below 25°F (2°C).
Popularity
153 people already have this plant 72 people have added this plant to their wishlists
What's wrong with your plant?
Related plants
Discover more plants with the list below
