Dahlia Penhill Watermelon

Description

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is a stunning variety of dahlia that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is a hybrid of the Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ and the Dahlia pinnata. The flowers are a unique blend of pink, peach, and yellow colors with a white center. The flower heads are large, measuring up to 10-12 inches in diameter. The stems are sturdy and grow up to 3-4 feet tall. This plant blooms from mid-summer to frost and is a perfect addition to any garden.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

As mentioned earlier, Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is a striking plant that features unique peach, pink, and yellow flowers with a white center. The flowers are large, measuring up to 10-12 inches in diameter. The stems are sturdy and grow up to 3-4 feet tall. This plant has a bushy growth habit and can spread up to 2-3 feet wide. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy texture.

Care Guide

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is a relatively low-maintenance plant. Here is a care guide that will help you grow this plant successfully:

• Water: Water your plant regularly, making sure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Dahlia Penhill Watermelon prefers well-drained soil.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
• Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
• Sunlight: Dahlia Penhill Watermelon prefers full sun or partial shade. Make sure that your plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow this plant as an annual or dig up the tubers and store them indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. You can control them by spraying your plant with a strong jet of water or using insecticidal soap.
• Aphids: These pests can cause stunted growth and distortion of the leaves. You can control them by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves. You can prevent it by providing good air circulation around your plant and avoiding overhead watering.
• Botrytis blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and flowers. You can prevent it by removing infected plant parts and providing good air circulation around your plant.

Habitat

Dahlia Penhill Watermelon is native to Mexico and Central America. This plant prefers warm, sunny climates and well-drained soil. It is commonly grown in gardens and is also used as a cut flower.

Question and Answer

• Q: Can Dahlia Penhill Watermelon grow in containers?
• A: Yes, you can grow this plant in containers. Make sure that your container is at least 12 inches in diameter and has drainage holes.
• Q: How often should I fertilize my Dahlia Penhill Watermelon?
• A: You should fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Q: Can I grow Dahlia Penhill Watermelon from seeds?
• A: Yes, you can grow this plant from seeds. However, it is easier to propagate it from tubers.
• Q: When is the best time to plant Dahlia Penhill Watermelon?
• A: You should plant this plant in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.

Related Plants

• Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
• Dahlia pinnata
• Dahlia ‘Babylon Bronze’
• Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’
• Dahlia ‘Firepot’

References

• “Dahlia ‘Penhill Watermelon’.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281443.
• “Dahlia ‘Penhill Watermelon’.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/253552/Dahlia-Penhill-Watermelon/Details.
• “Dahlia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 12 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dahlia.