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Description
Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight is a stunning cultivar that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a hybridized plant that was developed by Dr. Keith Hammett in New Zealand. The plant is a result of crossing two different Dahlia cultivars, namely Dahlia ‘Honka Fragile’ and Dahlia ‘Honka Black.’ Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight is known for its unique and striking black and white flowers. The plant is a perennial, which means it can live for more than two years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
Appearance
Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight has a unique and striking appearance. The plant grows up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The flowers are 4-6 inches in diameter and have a dark black center with white petals. The petals are slightly curled and have a glossy finish. The foliage is dark green and has a slightly serrated edge. Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight blooms from mid-summer to fall and is a great addition to any garden.
Care Guide
To ensure Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight thrives, follow these care guidelines:Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the hot summer months.Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Soil: Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.5-7.5.Sunlight: The plant needs full sun exposure to bloom well.Hardiness Zones: Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight can be susceptible to pests and diseases such as spider mites, thrips, powdery mildew, and grey mold. To prevent these issues, ensure the plant has proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and regularly inspect the plant for signs of pests or disease. If needed, use an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight is native to New Zealand and is commonly grown in gardens worldwide. The plant grows well in well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight a perennial plant?
A: Yes, it is a perennial plant and can live for more than two years.Q: What is the ideal pH level for Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight soil?
A: The plant prefers soil with a pH level of 6.5-7.5.Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight?
A: Spider mites, thrips, powdery mildew, and grey mold are common pests and diseases that can affect the plant.Q: When does Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight bloom?
A: The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight:- Dahlia ‘Black Jack’- Dahlia ‘Black Beauty’- Dahlia ‘Black Narcissus’- Dahlia ‘Mystic Spirit’- Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’
References
– Hammett, Keith. “Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight.” Keith Hammett Ltd., 2021, https://www.keithhammettbreeding.co.nz/dahlia-twyning-s-after-eight/.- “Dahlia Twyning’s After Eight.” Gardenia.net, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/dahlia-twyning-s-after-eight.
