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Description
The Dahlia Bishop Of York is a stunning plant that is perfect for adding a pop of color to any garden. This variety of dahlia is known for its beautiful magenta petals and dark foliage. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is native to Mexico and Central America. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and produces large, showy blooms that are 3-4 inches in diameter. It is a popular choice for cut flowers due to its long vase life.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
The Dahlia Bishop Of York has large, magenta flowers with dark foliage. The blooms can grow up to 4 inches in diameter and have a double-layered appearance. The petals are slightly curved and have a soft texture. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has a bushy habit. Its leaves are dark green and have a slightly glossy texture. The plant has a long bloom period, typically from mid-summer to early fall.
Care Guide
The Dahlia Bishop Of York is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure that it grows and blooms to its full potential. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Dahlia Bishop Of York prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater the plant. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizers high in nitrogen, as they can encourage leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
- Sunlight: The Dahlia Bishop Of York prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or lifted and stored indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dahlia Bishop Of York is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it is still important to keep an eye out for potential problems. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can be found on the undersides of leaves and can cause damage by sucking sap from the plant. Use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to control aphids.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the foliage and flowers of the plant. Use bait traps or handpick them to control their population.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to control mildew.
Habitat
The Dahlia Bishop Of York is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in sunny, well-draining soil. It prefers warm temperatures and can be damaged by frost. The plant is commonly grown as an ornamental in gardens and can be found in many different regions of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Bishop Of York be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are at least 12 inches in diameter and have drainage holes.
Q: How often should I deadhead Dahlia Bishop Of York?
A: Deadhead the plant regularly throughout the blooming season to encourage new flower growth. Remove spent flowers by cutting them back to the nearest set of leaves.
Q: Can Dahlia Bishop Of York be grown from seed?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown from seed, but it is more commonly propagated by division or cuttings.
Q: How long does the bloom period for Dahlia Bishop Of York last?
A: The plant typically blooms from mid-summer to early fall, with a long bloom period of several weeks.
Related Plants
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Mystic Illusion
- Dahlia Pink Giraffe
- Dahlia Blue Boy
References
- “Dahlia ‘Bishop of York'” – Missouri Botanical Garden
- “Dahlia Bishop of York” – Gardenia.net
- “Growing Dahlias” – National Gardening Association
