Contents
Description
Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was developed by Dr. Keith Hammett in New Zealand in the year 2008. This dahlia is known for its stunning blooms that have a unique colour combination of purple and white. It is a popular choice among gardeners and is often used in floral arrangements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion grows up to a height of 3-4 feet and has a spread of 1-2 feet. It has large blooms that measure up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers have a unique bi-colour combination of purple and white, with the purple colour being more prominent towards the centre of the flower. The plants have a compact growth habit and have dark green foliage that contrasts beautifully with the blooms.
Care Guide
Water: Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: These plants benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0-6.5.
Sunlight: Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion requires full sun to thrive. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion is susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. It is also prone to diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticides and fungicides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion is native to New Zealand and is well-suited to growing in warm, sunny climates. It is a popular choice for garden beds, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion be fertilized?
A: These plants should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil when growing Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion?
A: The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH of 6.0-6.5.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Dahlia Ferncliff Illusion?
A: These plants require full sun and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They are hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘David Howard’
- Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-ferncliff-illusion
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/growing-dahlia-plants.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/245134/Dahlia-Ferncliff-Illusion-(B)/Details
