Contents
Description
Dahlia Purple Gem is a beautiful flowering plant that offers stunning blooms in purple color. This plant belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is one of the largest families of flowering plants. Dahlia Purple Gem is a hybrid dahlia, which means it is a cross between different dahlia species. It is a popular choice among gardeners and florists due to its attractive appearance and easy care requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Purple Gem has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It produces large blooms that can reach up to 4 inches in diameter. The flowers are double-formed, meaning they have multiple rows of petals that create a layered effect. The petals are a rich purple color, with a slightly darker center. The leaves are green and serrated, with a slightly glossy texture. Overall, Dahlia Purple Gem is a stunning plant that adds a pop of color to any garden or floral arrangement.
Care Guide
Dahlia Purple Gem is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Dahlia Purple Gem prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water it regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Feed Dahlia Purple Gem with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Dahlia Purple Gem in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Dahlia Purple Gem thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Purple Gem is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. In colder zones, it can be grown as an annual or dug up and stored indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Purple Gem is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can damage the leaves and flowers. Use slug and snail bait to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
- Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Dahlia Purple Gem is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in a range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountainous regions. It prefers well-draining soil and a warm, sunny climate. In cultivation, Dahlia Purple Gem is grown as a garden plant and as a cut flower.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize Dahlia Purple Gem?
A: Feed Dahlia Purple Gem with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Dahlia Purple Gem tolerate shade?
A: Dahlia Purple Gem thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dahlia Purple Gem?
A: Dahlia Purple Gem is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: How do I control spider mites on Dahlia Purple Gem?
A: Use an insecticidal soap to control spider mites on Dahlia Purple Gem.
Related Plants
- Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
- Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’
- Dahlia ‘Firepot’
- Dahlia ‘Mystic Dreamer’
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/dahlia/growing-dahlia-plants.htm
- https://www.gardeningchannel.com/how-to-care-for-dahlias/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/popular/dahlia/purple-gem/details
