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The black dahlia flower is a perennial plant, with tuberous roots and grouped in clusters. It is native to Mexico, like the other dahlias. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes 35 species. The development of the black dahlia begins at the end of winter. The flowers of the black dahlias are all grouped in bunches.
Black dahlias are very special and decorative flowers, which can give a sense of mystery and charm, thanks to their black-reddish color.
The special color of these flowers has given rise over the years to many hypotheses about its genesis.
Finally, a research conducted by the Technische Universität of Vienna has unraveled the mystery, leading to the discovery that the color is due to the fact that anthocyanins (coloring substances present in flowers) accumulate more intensely in the petals than other chemical compounds (flavones).
Black dahlia flower: flowering
Black dahlias bloom vigorously from early summer until early autumn.
Black dahlia: cultivation, exposure, irrigation
It is very easy to grow black dahlias. Their planting takes place at the end of winter, placing the bulbs in a hole about 10-15 cm deep, with a well-worked soil rich in manure.
Black dahlias love to be placed in semi-shaded places, in a garden, or in a large pot.
The watering is carried out only when the soil is dry because otherwise, you might start to rot the roots.
It is important to keep in mind that dahlias fear the cold.
Black dahlia flower: fertilization
Fertilization should be done every 10-12 days, using a specific fertilizer for bulbous plants or flowering plants ( buy on Amazon ).
Black dahlia: pruning
It is good to periodically trim the new shoots. Buy pruning shears on Amazon
Black dahlia: reproduction
At the end of winter, the “dormant” bulbs, previously placed in containers, can be taken back and placed in the ground.
Black dahlia: diseases
Black dahlias are prone to some diseases caused by parasites and fungi. Among these we find:
Sclerotinia and gray mold: causes rotting of the bulbs, roots, and stems. Buy a fungicide on Amazon
The aphids : (plant lice) that suck all the sap of flowers and leaves. Buy an anti aphid insecticide on amazon
Thrips: they are very small insects (adult specimens are 2 millimeters long) that feed on the leaves and petals. Buy a Thrip Control Product on Amazon
The whitefly: it is a parasite that is not easy to identify with the naked eye during its birth and growth, but it is noticed only as an adult, assuming the appearance of a white butterfly. Buy an anti whitefly product on Amazon
The slugs and snails: These insects are omnivores and, in addition, to feed on small insects and earthworms, plug in their food even vegetables. Buy a snail trap on Amazon
The Bulb Fly: This insect is black, with green highlights and golden hairs. Adults are between 5-9 mm long. The greatest damage to plants causes them when they are still in the state of the larva, as they feed on the inside of the plants.
Tips for a good purchase
When buying a black dahlia, it is always good to check the condition of the plant in general, which must be beautiful, lush, with full and shiny flowers. The leaves must not be blackened, moldy, whitish, as they could be infested with parasites and/or mold. The stem must also be green and not blackened or moldy.
Finally, when trying to lift the plant, moldy roots should not come out.
