Contents
Description
Dahlia Dark Spirit is a dark, elegant flower that is part of the Asteraceae family. It was introduced in 2012 by the Netherlands-based company, Verwer Dahlia BV, and is known for its deep, almost black color. This dahlia variety is a hybrid of the decorative and cactus dahlia types. Its large, fully double blooms can grow up to 5 inches in diameter, and have a velvety texture. The petals are a deep burgundy color with dark red undertones, giving the flower an almost black appearance. It is a popular choice for cut flower arrangements, especially for weddings and other formal events.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Dark Spirit is a stunning flower that is sure to make a statement in any garden or bouquet. Its large, fully double blooms have a velvety texture and can grow up to 5 inches in diameter. The petals are a deep burgundy color with dark red undertones, giving the flower an almost black appearance. The foliage is deep green and has a slightly glossy texture. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great choice for borders or as a focal point in a garden.
Care Guide
To keep Dahlia Dark Spirit looking its best, it is important to follow these care guidelines:Water: Dahlia Dark Spirit prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Dahlia Dark Spirit prefers rich, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or other organic matter.Sunlight: Dahlia Dark Spirit thrives in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Dark Spirit is hardy in zones 8-11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Dahlia Dark Spirit is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some common ones to watch out for include:Slugs: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers of dahlia plants. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and use a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Dahlia Dark Spirit is native to Mexico and Central America, but can be grown in many different climates. It prefers warm, sunny locations with fertile, well-drained soil. In its native habitat, it grows in meadows and open areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Dark Spirit be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Dark Spirit can be grown in containers. Just make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size.Q: Does Dahlia Dark Spirit attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Dahlia Dark Spirit is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.Q: How often should I deadhead Dahlia Dark Spirit?
A: Deadhead the plant regularly to encourage more blooms. Remove spent flowers as soon as they start to fade.Q: Can Dahlia Dark Spirit be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Dahlia Dark Spirit can be grown from seed, but it is easier to propagate from tubers or cuttings.
Related Plants
Other varieties of dahlia that are similar to Dahlia Dark Spirit include:
- Dahlia Black Jack
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Black Beauty
- Dahlia Wine Eyed Jill
References
- “Dahlia ‘Dark Spirit’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org.
- “Dahlia ‘Dark Spirit’.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 2021. www.rhs.org.uk.
- “Dahlia ‘Dark Spirit’.” National Garden Bureau. Accessed August 2021. www.ngb.org.
