Contents
Description
Dahlia Tartan is a unique and stunning plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybrid dahlia that was first introduced in the UK in the 1950s. Dahlia Tartan’s flowers are characterized by their striking colors, including a deep burgundy-red with yellow tips. The plant itself can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide, making it a perfect addition to any garden or landscape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Tartan’s flowers are the main attraction. They are large, with a diameter of 6-8 inches, and consist of multiple layers of petals. The petals are deep burgundy-red with yellow tips, giving the flower a unique and striking appearance. The foliage of the plant is also noteworthy, with dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and provide a nice contrast to the flowers.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Dahlia Tartan thrives, it is essential to provide it with the proper care. Here are some tips on how to care for your plant:- Water: Dahlia Tartan needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure to water the plant deeply so that the roots receive enough moisture.- Fertilization: The plant will benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to encourage blooming.- Soil: Dahlia Tartan prefers well-drained, fertile soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.- Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to thrive, so make sure to plant it in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Tartan is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. If you live in a colder zone, you will need to dig up the tubers and store them indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like all plants, Dahlia Tartan is vulnerable to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common ones to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can damage the plant by feeding on the leaves and spreading diseases. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webs on the plant. Use a miticide to control them.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powder on the leaves and can cause them to curl and die. Use a fungicide to control it.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can lead to the plant’s death. Make sure to provide proper drainage and avoid watering too frequently.
Habitat
Dahlia Tartan is native to Mexico and Central America. It prefers warm, sunny climates and well-drained soil. The plant can be grown in gardens, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I fertilize my Dahlia Tartan?
A: You should fertilize your plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Dahlia Tartan be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant needs full sun to thrive and should be grown outdoors.
Q: How do I store Dahlia Tartan tubers during the winter?
A: Dig up the tubers after the first frost and let them dry in a cool, dry place for a few days. Then, store them in a box filled with peat moss or vermiculite in a cool, dark place until spring.
Q: How often should I water my Dahlia Tartan?
A: You should water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot and dry weather.
Related Plants
– Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’- Dahlia ‘Café au Lait’- Dahlia ‘David Howard’- Dahlia ‘Moonfire’- Dahlia ‘Redskin’
References
– American Dahlia Society. (n.d.). Dahlia Tartan. Retrieved from https://www.dahlia.org/tuber-search/?item=14137- Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Dahlia Tartan. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/26666/Dahlia-Tartan/Details
