Contents
Description
The Dahlia Marble Ball is a stunning flower that is sure to make a statement in any garden. With its vibrant colors and unique shape, it is a popular choice among gardeners. This dahlia variety is a hybrid that produces large, ball-shaped flowers that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The petals of the Dahlia Marble Ball are white with red stripes, creating a marbled effect that is truly eye-catching.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
The Dahlia Marble Ball is a showstopper in the garden. Its large, ball-shaped flowers are a bright white with deep red stripes. The petals are smooth and velvety, adding to the luxurious feel of this plant. The leaves of the Dahlia Marble Ball are dark green and slightly serrated, providing a lovely contrast to the bright flowers. The plant itself can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a great choice for the back of a garden bed or as a focal point in a container garden.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Dahlia Marble Ball thrives, it is important to follow its specific care requirements. Here are some tips for caring for this stunning plant:Water: Dahlia Marble Balls require regular watering. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Be sure to water the plant deeply, as shallow watering can lead to weak roots.Fertilization: Fertilize your Dahlia Marble Ball every 2-3 weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.5-7.0 is ideal.Sunlight: Dahlia Marble Balls require full sun to thrive. They should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: The Dahlia Marble Ball is hardy in zones 8-11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, the Dahlia Marble Ball is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common issues that gardeners may encounter:Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and thrips are common pests that can damage Dahlia Marble Balls. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and treat with insecticidal soap as needed.Diseases: Powdery mildew and botrytis are two fungal diseases that can affect Dahlia Marble Balls. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
The Dahlia Marble Ball is a hybrid plant that was developed through selective breeding. It is not found in the wild, but is commonly grown in gardens and nurseries around the world.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Marble Balls in a container?
A: Yes! These plants can be grown in containers as long as they receive enough sunlight and the soil is well-draining.Q: How often should I fertilize my Dahlia Marble Ball?
A: Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.Q: Are Dahlia Marble Balls deer-resistant?
A: No, these plants are not deer-resistant.Q: Can I grow Dahlia Marble Balls from seed?
A: Yes, you can grow these plants from seed. However, it is more common to purchase established plants from a nursery.
Related Plants
Here are some other dahlia varieties that you might be interested in:- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’- Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’- Dahlia ‘Firepot’- Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’- Dahlia ‘Purple Gem’
References
– American Dahlia Society. (n.d.). Marble Ball. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org/marble-ball/- Better Homes & Gardens. (n.d.). Dahlia Marble Ball. Retrieved from https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/flower/dahlia-marble-ball/- Gardening Know How. (2021). Dahlia Marble Ball Care: Tips For Growing Marble Ball Dahlias. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/growing-marble-ball-dahlias.htm
