Contents
Description
Dahlia Blue Bell (Dahlia spp.) is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is known for its striking blue colored blooms that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall. The blooms appear from mid-summer to fall and can last for several weeks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
The Dahlia Blue Bell plant has green foliage that is deeply lobed and serrated. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 6 inches wide. The plant produces large blue colored flowers that have a diameter of up to 6 inches. The flowers have a unique shape and are made up of several layers of petals that form a ball-like structure. The petals are smooth and have a velvety texture. The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall and can produce several flowers at once, making it a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Dahlia Blue Bell plant thrives, you need to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips on how to care for your plant:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soils but performs best in loamy soil.- Sunlight: The plant needs at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade but performs best in full sun.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most plants, the Dahlia Blue Bell is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the common ones to watch out for:- Aphids: These are tiny insects that feed on the plant’s sap and can cause stunted growth and distorted leaves.- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the plant’s leaves and can cause yellowing and discoloration.- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery coating on the plant’s leaves and can cause them to wither and die.- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant’s roots and can cause them to rot and die.To prevent these problems, make sure to keep the plant healthy by providing it with the right care and promptly treating any issues that arise.
Habitat
The Dahlia Blue Bell is native to Mexico and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and mountain slopes. It prefers warm climates and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Blue Bell in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dahlia Blue Bell plant?
A: Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: How do I propagate Dahlia Blue Bell?
A: You can propagate the plant by dividing the root clumps in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Q: Is Dahlia Blue Bell toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Dahlia Blue Bell:- Dahlia Mystic Illusion- Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff- Dahlia Arabian Night- Dahlia Kenora Macob
References
– American Dahlia Society. (2021). About Dahlias. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org/about-dahlias/- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Dahlia spp. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b623- The Spruce. (2021). How to Grow and Care for Dahlias. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-dahlias-1402836
