Dahlia Pinnata

Description

Dahlia Pinnata, commonly known as the garden dahlia, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America but has become a popular garden plant worldwide due to its beautiful flowers and ease of cultivation. Dahlia Pinnata has a tuberous root system and grows up to 1-2 meters tall. It produces large, showy flowers that range in size from 5 cm to 30 cm in diameter, with colors ranging from white, yellow, pink, orange, red, and purple. The flowers bloom from mid-summer until the first frost of autumn, making them a popular choice for gardeners who want to add color to their gardens throughout the summer season.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Dahlia Pinnata has a bushy habit and can grow up to 1-2 meters tall. Its leaves are dark green and toothed, with a length of up to 30 cm. The flowers of Dahlia Pinnata are its main attraction. They come in a variety of sizes and colors, with some varieties having double or triple layers of petals. The petals can be flat or curved, and the flowers can have a single or multiple colors. Dahlia Pinnata blooms from mid-summer until the first frost of autumn, providing a colorful display throughout the season.

Care Guide

Dahlia Pinnata is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips:

Water

Dahlia Pinnata needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid overwatering, as it can cause root rot.

Fertilization

Feed Dahlia Pinnata with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once or twice a month during the growing season. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.

Soil

Dahlia Pinnata prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does not like heavy clay soils.

Sunlight

Dahlia Pinnata needs full sun to thrive and produce abundant flowers. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

Dahlia Pinnata is a tender perennial that is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder regions, it can be grown as an annual or lifted and stored indoors during the winter.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dahlia Pinnata is generally free from serious pests and diseases, but it can be affected by:

Slugs and Snails

These pests can damage the leaves and flowers of Dahlia Pinnata. Use slug and snail bait to control them.

Spider Mites

These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves of Dahlia Pinnata, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. Use a miticide to control them.

Powdery Mildew

This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves of Dahlia Pinnata. Use a fungicide to control it.

Habitat

Dahlia Pinnata is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in open fields and along roadsides. It prefers warm, sunny locations with well-drained soil.

Question and Answer

Q. How often should I water Dahlia Pinnata?

A. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.

Q. What type of fertilizer should I use for Dahlia Pinnata?

A. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once or twice a month during the growing season.

Q. Can Dahlia Pinnata tolerate shade?

A. Yes, but it may produce fewer flowers.

Q. What is the hardiness zone for Dahlia Pinnata?

A. Dahlia Pinnata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Related Plants

• Dahlia Cultivars
• Dahlia Pinnata var. cortezii
• Dahlia Pinnata var. scapigerifolia
• Dahlia Imperialis

References

• “Dahlia Pinnata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 4 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails.aspx?kempercode=d280>
• “Dahlia Pinnata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 4 June 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12899/dahlia-pinnata/details>
• “Dahlia Pinnata.” The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Accessed 4 June 2021. <https://www.almanac.com/plant/dahlias>