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Dahlias are native to Mexico and come in a hugely diverse range of flower forms and colors. One of the most striking varieties in recent years is the Red Labyrinth Dahlia, introduced by Swan Island Dahlias of Canby, Oregon, in 2009.
Red labyrinth dahlias have striking flowers. The red petals are long and twisted. They look like mazes or labyrinths. That's why they're called Red Labyrinth. These dahlias grow well in most places. If you garden in zones 7 to 11, you can grow them. Give them sunlight and drain the soil. Then they'll blossom all summer long.
True to its name, the Red Labyrinth dahlia features dynamic, maze-like red petals with elongated, quilled tips. This one-of-a-kind form has won prestigious awards from the American Dahlia Society (ADS) and the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
Red Labyrinth Dahlia Origins and History
The Red Labyrinth dahlia was developed by Swan Island Dahlias, a family-owned dahlia hybridization leader based in Canby, Oregon, since 1946. In 2009, they introduced the Red Labyrinth variety, which gained significant acclaim and attention for its unique form.
- The elongated, quilled petals have a texture and appearance reminiscent of a maze or labyrinth.
- Striking red blooms stand out brightly in gardens from July until frost.
- Wins ADS awards for best novel open-centered variety in 2010 and 2013.
Swan Island Dahlias has decades of experience hybridizing dahlias, starting with founder W.L. Luedloff. Their focus from the beginning has been improving dahlia genetics for garden performance, form, and color. The Red Labyrinth has certainly achieved top marks in distinctiveness.
After Spanish conquerors brought dahlias to Europe in the 1700s, plant breeders began working on the floral qualities we see today. Learn how to cut dahlias for a vase and appreciate their beauty. The native origin of all dahlias can be traced to Mexico, where they grew wild in the mountain valleys. Aztecs gathered and cultivated dahlias for medicinal purposes and food.
Red Labyrinth Dahlia Growing Conditions
The Red Labyrinth Dahlia thrives with.
- Hardiness Zones: Growing well across zones 8–11 and even into cooler zone 7, allowing gardens across most U.S. regions to support it.
- Climate: Prefers mild summer climates below 90°F. Hot, humid regions may inhibit blooms.
- Sun: full sunlight, minimum 6 hours daily.
- Soil: Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil - amend clay or sand as needed. Target ideal pH of 6.5-7.
- Water: Consistent moisture. Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Spacing at least 12 inches apart allows good air circulation as plants reach 3-4 feet tall and wide.
Planting and Caring for Red Labyrinth Dahlias
Follow these tips for successfully growing Red Labyrinth Dahlias.
- Planting Time: After the last frost when the soil reaches 60°F - usually early to mid-spring.
- Planting Method: Dig holes 6 inches deep, and place the tuber horizontally with the eye facing up. Cover with 2-3 inches of soil.
- Fertilizer: Use balanced vegetable fertilizer at planting, then monthly at half strength.
- Support: Insert stakes when shoots appear. Tie flexible stems to support them as they grow.
- Pruning: Pinch early shoots to encourage a bushy form. Remove spent blooms to prolong flowering into the fall.
- Overwintering: Dig up clumps after the first fall frost. Divide and store fat, healthy tubers in cool, dark conditions.
Troubleshooting Issues
|
Problem |
Cause |
Solution |
|
Lack of flowers |
Too much Nitrogen fertilization, overcrowding, and overwatering |
Use a balanced fertilizer, give plants space, and reduce watering frequency |
|
Powdery mildew |
Humid conditions, poor air circulation |
Space plants out, improve airflow, and remove affected leaves |
|
Minimal tuber growth |
Compacted soil, fungus from wet conditions |
Amend soil with compost, plant in well-draining areas, and allow soil to dry out between waterings |
Quoted from longtime dahlia grower Jim Chuey of the American Dahlia Society.
I fell in love with the Red Labyrinth the first time I saw it. The fiery red color and fascinating convoluted petals create a silhouette in the garden that stands out. It's become an anchor dahlia in my landscape.
Frequently Asked Question
Are dahlias romantic?
Dahlias are considered romantic flowers, often symbolizing love, commitment, and admiration.
What is the dahlia flower famous for?
The dahlia flower is famous for its wide range of vibrant colors, intricate petal formations, and long-lasting blooms.
How tall are red labyrinth dahlias?
Red Labyrinth dahlias typically grow to a height of 4 to 5 feet.
What type of dahlia is a labyrinth?
Labyrinth is a decorative type of dahlia known for its intricate and captivating flower structure.
Conclusion
The Red Labyrinth dahlia brings a uniquely stunning, almost maze-like appearance to gardens across the country. Grown well, its elongated scarlet-red petals and dynamic form light up any sunny flower bed. By following key tips on planting, care, and overwintering for hardiness zones 7–11, the red labyrinth can thrive for years as a distinctive garden focal point.
Discovering the perfect vase transforms your home into a haven of beauty. Embrace the romance of dahlias, symbolizing love and admiration. The dahlia flower, renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate petals, adds a touch of elegance.
