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Description
Dahlia Mexican Star, also known as Dahlia ‘Mexican Star’ or Dahlia ‘Mystic Star’, is a beautiful ornamental flower that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and has become popular among gardeners and florists due to its unique features and attractive blooms. The plant is a perennial that can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It blooms in late summer to fall and produces beautiful star-shaped flowers that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The flowers come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, and white, and have a yellow center.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Mexican Star has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3-4 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. The plant has dark green, lobed leaves that grow up to 6 inches long. The stem is sturdy and can support the weight of the flowers. The flowers of Dahlia Mexican Star are the main attraction of the plant. They are star-shaped and can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The petals are narrow and pointed and come in a range of colors, including pink, purple, red, and white. The center of the flower is yellow and has a prominent stamen. The plant blooms from late summer to fall, and the flowers can last up to a week.
Care Guide
Dahlia Mexican Star is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Dahlia Mexican Star needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Dahlia Mexican Star prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or aged manure before planting.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. Plant it in a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Mexican Star is hardy in USDA Zones 8-10 but can be grown as an annual in colder zones.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Mexican Star is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common problems that you should look out for:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause deformities. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Slugs and Snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use bait or traps to control slugs and snails.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Dahlia Mexican Star is native to Mexico and Central America and prefers a warm, humid climate. It grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is commonly grown in gardens, containers, and as cut flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dahlia Mexican Star a perennial or an annual?
A: Dahlia Mexican Star is a perennial in USDA Zones 8-10 but can be grown as an annual in colder zones.
Q: Can Dahlia Mexican Star grow in containers?
A: Yes, Dahlia Mexican Star can grow in containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and water the plant regularly.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Mexican Star?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Dahlia Mexican Star?
A: The best time to plant Dahlia Mexican Star is in the spring after the last frost.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Cafe au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘David Howard’
- Dahlia ‘Honka’
- Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’
References
- “Dahlia ‘Mystic Star’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b511
- “Dahlia ‘Mexican Star’.” Plant Care Today. https://plantcaretoday.com/dahlia-mexican-star.html
- “Dahlia ‘Mexican Star’.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/203122/i-Dahlia-i-Mexican-Star/Details
