Contents
Description
Dahlia Isabel is a beautiful and popular flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid variety that was developed by the famous Dutch breeder Arie Blom in the year 2011. This plant is named after Arie’s daughter, Isabel, and has become a favorite among gardeners and flower enthusiasts due to its stunning blooms and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Isabel is a herbaceous tuberous plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and serrated at the edges. The plant produces large, showy flowers that can measure up to 6 inches in diameter with a stunning blend of pink, orange and yellow hues. The petals are arranged in a symmetrical, star-like shape that gives the flower a distinctive look. The blooms are long-lasting and can be enjoyed from mid-summer until the first frost.
Care Guide
Dahlia Isabel is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to produce the best results. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:- Water: Dahlia Isabel requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during hot and dry weather. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure not to water excessively.- Fertilization: This plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: Dahlia Isabel prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.5-7.5 is ideal for this plant.- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure to produce the best blooms. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Isabel is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder climates, the tubers should be dug up and stored during the winter months to protect them from freezing.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Isabel is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems, including:- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause stunted growth and yellowing. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These pests are difficult to see with the naked eye but can cause webbing and yellowing of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and flowers. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Dahlia Isabel is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, scrublands, and forests. It prefers warm, sunny locations with well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Isabel?
A: It is recommended to fertilize this plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
Q: Can Dahlia Isabel grow in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: When should I plant Dahlia Isabel?
A: This plant should be planted in the spring after the last frost date in your area.
Q: How do I overwinter Dahlia Isabel?
A: In colder climates, the tubers should be dug up in the fall after the first frost and stored in a cool, dry location until the next spring.
Related Plants
– Dahlia Mystic Illusion- Dahlia Cornel Bronze- Dahlia Crazy Love- Dahlia Firepot
References
– “Dahlia ‘Isabel’ – Dahlia.” Gardenia.net, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-isabel-dahlia.- “Dahlia ‘Isabel’.” Royal Horticultural Society, https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/326987/Dahlia-Isabel/Details.
