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Description
Dahlia Myrtle S Folly is a stunning dahlia cultivar that boasts deep purple-red blooms with a contrasting white edge. This dahlia is a ball-shaped variety, meaning its flowers are fully double and nearly spherical in shape. Myrtle S Folly blooms from midsummer until the first frost, making it an excellent choice for adding color to the late-season garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
The flowers of Dahlia Myrtle S Folly are a stunning deep purple-red color with a white edge. They are fully double and ball-shaped, measuring up to 4 inches in diameter. The plant grows to be about 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with dark green foliage that provides a beautiful backdrop for the blooms. Myrtle S Folly is a late-season bloomer, with flowers appearing from midsummer until the first frost.
Care Guide
Dahlia Myrtle S Folly is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some specific care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for your Myrtle S Folly:
- Water: Dahlia Myrtle S Folly prefers consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Myrtle S Folly every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant your Myrtle S Folly in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Dahlia Myrtle S Folly prefers full sun, but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Myrtle S Folly is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all dahlias, Myrtle S Folly is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some to watch out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the foliage and flowers of your Myrtle S Folly. Use slug bait or handpick them off the plant.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing and bronzing of the foliage. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Dahlia Myrtle S Folly is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in a wide range of habitats, including open fields, forests, and scrubland. In cultivation, Myrtle S Folly is commonly grown in flower gardens and borders.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dahlia Myrtle S Folly a good cut flower?
A: Yes, Myrtle S Folly is an excellent cut flower. The blooms last for several days in a vase.
Q: Can I grow Dahlia Myrtle S Folly in a container?
A: Yes, Myrtle S Folly can be grown in a container. Use a large pot with well-draining soil and water regularly.
Q: How do I overwinter Dahlia Myrtle S Folly?
A: In colder climates, Dahlia Myrtle S Folly should be dug up after the first frost and stored in a cool, dry place for the winter. Replant in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Q: Can Dahlia Myrtle S Folly be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Myrtle S Folly can be grown from seed, but it is more commonly propagated by dividing the tubers in the spring.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘David Howard’
- Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’
References
- “Dahlia ‘Myrtle’s Folly’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 5, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276722.
- “Dahlia ‘Myrtle’s Folly’.” Plant Finder. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.whiteflowerfarm.com/dahlia-myrtles-folly.
- “Dahlia Myrtle’s Folly.” Longfield Gardens. Accessed August 5, 2021. https://www.longfield-gardens.com/plantname/Dahlia-Myrtles-Folly.
