Contents
Description
Dahlia Karma Choc is a popular flowering plant known for its stunning dark red, almost black, blooms that contrast beautifully with its dark green foliage. This plant is a hybrid cultivar that was developed by Dutch breeder Arie Blom. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is prized for its long stems, making it an excellent choice for cut flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Karma Choc grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Its flowers have a diameter of about 4-6 inches and bloom from mid-summer to fall. The deep red, almost black, blooms of Karma Choc are semi-double and have a velvety texture. The plant’s dark green foliage is a perfect contrast to the dark blooms. The stems are long and sturdy, making them excellent for cut flowers.
Care Guide
To care for Dahlia Karma Choc, you should follow these steps:
Water: Water the plant deeply once a week. Dahlia Karma Choc prefers moist soil but does not like to be waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Dahlia Karma Choc prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Karma Choc is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones, the plant should be dug up and stored indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Karma Choc is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests are aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The most common diseases are powdery mildew and botrytis blight. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Dahlia Karma Choc is native to Mexico and Central America. It prefers warm climates with plenty of sun but can tolerate some shade. The plant grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dahlia Karma Choc a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Dahlia Karma Choc is a perennial plant that can live for several years if cared for properly.
Q: Can Dahlia Karma Choc grow in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Karma Choc can grow in containers as long as the pot is large enough and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Dahlia Karma Choc be fertilized?
A: Dahlia Karma Choc should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Dahlia Karma Choc be grown indoors?
A: Dahlia Karma Choc can be grown indoors, but it will need plenty of sunlight and good air circulation.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dahlia Karma Choc:
- Dahlia Arabian Night
- Dahlia Bishop of Llandaff
- Dahlia Cafe au Lait
- Dahlia David Howard
- Dahlia Firepot
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-karma-choc
- https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/dahlia-karma-choc
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/growing-karma-dahlias.htm
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/flower/dahlia/
