Contents
Description
Dahlia Allan Sparkes is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to Mexico and Central America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is a popular addition to gardens due to its vibrant colors and easy-to-grow nature. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall, producing large, stunning flowers that can range in color from white to pink, red, orange, yellow, and even purple. Its foliage is also attractive, with deep green leaves that provide a nice contrast to the flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Allan Sparkes can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Its flowers can range in size from 2-8 inches in diameter and are double or semi-double, with numerous petals that give the flowers a full, lush appearance. The plant’s foliage is deeply lobed and has a velvety texture. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and 4 inches wide. Dahlia Allan Sparkes is available in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, orange, yellow, and purple, which makes it a popular choice for gardeners who want to add a pop of color to their landscapes.
Care Guide
Water: Dahlia Allan Sparkes needs to be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently if the soil is dry.Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers as they can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.Soil: Dahlia Allan Sparkes prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Allan Sparkes is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Allan Sparkes is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including spider mites, aphids, leafhoppers, powdery mildew, and bacterial wilt. To prevent these problems, it is important to keep the plant healthy by providing it with proper care, including regular watering and fertilization. If pest or disease problems occur, they can be treated with insecticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Dahlia Allan Sparkes is native to Mexico and Central America and prefers warm, sunny climates. It grows well in well-draining soils and is often found in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Allan Sparkes be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.Q: Can Dahlia Allan Sparkes be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.Q: Does Dahlia Allan Sparkes attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.Q: When should Dahlia Allan Sparkes be planted?
A: The plant should be planted in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Related Plants
- Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff
- Dahlia David Howard
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Fire Magic
- Dahlia Karma Choc
References
- “Dahlia ‘Allan Sparkes’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 23 June 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276041&isprofile=1&basic=Dahlia%20Allan%20Sparkes>.
- “Dahlia ‘Allan Sparkes’.” Plant Care Today. Accessed 23 June 2021. <https://plantcaretoday.com/dahlia-allan-sparkes.html>.
- “Dahlia ‘Allan Sparkes’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/62338/i-Dahlia-i-Allan-Sparkes/Details>.
