Dahlia Akita
Contents
Description
Dahlia Akita is a stunning perennial flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was developed in the United States in 1976 by crossing two other Dahlia varieties – Dahlia ‘Bronze Baby’ and Dahlia ‘Yellow Star’. The plant produces large, bright flowers that come in shades of orange and yellow. The blooms have a diameter of 8-10 inches and are perfect for adding color to gardens, borders, or cut flower arrangements. Dahlia Akita is a popular choice for gardeners due to its long flowering period, which lasts from midsummer to the first frost.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Akita grows up to 3-4 feet in height and 2-3 feet in width. The plant has dark green leaves that are slightly serrated and ovate in shape. The leaves grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. The plant produces large, showy flowers that can grow up to 10 inches in diameter. The flowers have a double row of petals and come in shades of orange and yellow. The center of the flower is dark brown or black. Dahlia Akita blooms from midsummer to the first frost, and each plant can produce up to 20 flowers at once.
Care Guide
Dahlia Akita requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be planted in full sun or partial shade. It needs to be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant. Dahlia Akita should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and should be protected from frost in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Akita is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. The plant is vulnerable to spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and botrytis. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overcrowding. If the plant does get infected, it should be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Dahlia Akita is native to Mexico and Central America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and open fields. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Dahlia Akita?
A: Dahlia Akita should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant.
Q: What is the blooming period of Dahlia Akita?
A: Dahlia Akita blooms from midsummer to the first frost.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dahlia Akita?
A: Dahlia Akita is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: How can I prevent fungal diseases in Dahlia Akita?
A: Good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overcrowding can prevent fungal diseases in Dahlia Akita. If the plant does get infected, it should be treated with a fungicide.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘David Howard’
- Dahlia ‘Moonfire’
- Dahlia ‘Arabian Night’
References
- “Dahlia Akita.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=265708.
- “Dahlia Akita.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/134330/Dahlia-Akita/Details.
- “Dahlia Akita.” Walters Gardens, www.waltersgardens.com/plant/dahlia-akita.
