Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff'

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Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff is a cultivar of the flowering plant in the genus Dahlia, within the family Asteraceae. It is noted for its striking dark foliage and bright red flowers, making it a popular choice for both gardeners and landscapers. This article provides an overview of the Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff', including its characteristics, cultivation, and history.

Characteristics

Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' features semi-double flowers that are a vibrant red color, which contrast strikingly with its deep burgundy, almost black, foliage. The plant typically grows to a height of about 90-100 cm (35-39 inches). The flowers, which can reach up to 10 cm (4 inches) in diameter, bloom from midsummer until the first frosts of autumn, providing a long-lasting display of color.

Cultivation

Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' thrives in a position that receives full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. As with most dahlias, 'Bishop of Llandaff' is grown from tubers planted in the spring after the threat of frost has passed. To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, it is recommended to pinch out the tips of the main shoot once the plant has reached a height of about 40 cm (16 inches).

In regions where the winter temperature falls below freezing, the tubers need to be lifted and stored in a frost-free place over winter. They can then be replanted the following spring. Alternatively, in milder climates, a thick mulch can be applied to protect the tubers from frost.

History

The 'Bishop of Llandaff' cultivar was introduced in the 1920s. It is named after Francis Edwardes, the 9th Bishop of Llandaff, who was an avid gardener. Its striking appearance quickly made it a favorite among gardeners and it has remained popular to this day. The cultivar has also been used in breeding programs to develop new Dahlia varieties with similar dark foliage.

Awards

Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' has received numerous awards for its beauty and garden performance, including the prestigious Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society.

In the Garden

Due to its striking appearance, Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' is often used as a focal point in garden designs. It pairs well with plants that have silver foliage or those with light-colored flowers, which can help to highlight its dark leaves and bright blooms. It is suitable for borders, beds, and can also be grown in large containers.

Propagation

Propagation of Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' is typically done through division of the tubers in early spring. Each division should have at least one eye from which the new plant will grow. Cuttings can also be taken from shoot tips in spring to propagate new plants.

Pests and Diseases

Like all dahlias, 'Bishop of Llandaff' can be susceptible to slugs, snails, and aphids. It may also be affected by powdery mildew and other fungal diseases if the conditions are too damp or if the plant is not properly ventilated. Regular monitoring and appropriate cultural practices can help minimize these issues.