Contents
Description
Dahlia Franz Kafka is a stunning decorative dahlia cultivar that boasts large, double flowers with dark red petals and golden yellow tips. This dahlia cultivar was named after the famous Czech writer Franz Kafka who was known for his dark and imaginative works.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Franz Kafka grows up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. Its dark green leaves are ovate with toothed edges and grow up to 6 inches long. Its flowers can grow up to 6-8 inches in diameter and have a uniform dark red color with golden yellow tips. Its blooms are double, meaning they have multiple rows of petals, giving them a full and lush appearance. Dahlia Franz Kafka blooms from mid-summer to fall.
Care Guide
To keep Dahlia Franz Kafka healthy and blooming, follow these care tips:
- Water: Dahlia Franz Kafka needs regular watering, about 1-2 inches per week. Make sure to water the plant deeply and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
- Fertilization: Dahlia Franz Kafka needs regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, especially during its growing season. Apply fertilizer every 2-3 weeks or as needed.
- Soil: Dahlia Franz Kafka grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH level between 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: Dahlia Franz Kafka needs full sun exposure to bloom and grow properly. It can tolerate partial shade, but its blooms may be smaller and less vibrant.
- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Franz Kafka is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones, it needs to be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Franz Kafka is susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Slugs and snails: These pests can chew on the leaves and flowers of Dahlia Franz Kafka. They can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Dahlia Franz Kafka is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in mountainous regions at elevations of up to 10,000 feet. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dahlia Franz Kafka be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Franz Kafka can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I deadhead Dahlia Franz Kafka?
A: Deadhead Dahlia Franz Kafka regularly to promote continuous blooming. Remove spent blooms as soon as they start to fade.
Q: Can I propagate Dahlia Franz Kafka by cuttings?
A: Yes, Dahlia Franz Kafka can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Q: How do I overwinter Dahlia Franz Kafka?
A: In colder zones, Dahlia Franz Kafka needs to be dug up and stored indoors during the winter months. Cut back the stems to about 6 inches and store the tubers in a cool, dry place.
Related Plants
- Dahlia Mystic Illusion
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff
- Dahlia Black Beauty
- Dahlia Café au Lait
References
- “Dahlia ‘Franz Kafka’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=249598.
- “Dahlia ‘Franz Kafka’.” National Garden Bureau, www.ngb.org/year-of-the-dahlia/dahlia-franz-kafka.php.
- “How to Grow Dahlias.” Old Farmer’s Almanac, www.almanac.com/plant/dahlias.
