The ‘Show n Tell’ is a specific cultivar of dahlia, celebrated for its vibrant, bi-colored petals that often display a striking contrast between yellow and red or orange hues. This variety is typically categorized as a decorative dahlia, owing to its fully double blooms that lack a visible central disc. The flower’s name aptly describes its attention-grabbing appearance, making it a focal point in gardens and floral arrangements.
This particular dahlia holds significance due to its visual appeal and contribution to the diversity within dahlia horticulture. It provides gardeners and florists with a visually dynamic option. Its relatively large bloom size also makes it a popular choice for exhibitions and competitions. Historically, dahlias, originating from Mexico, have undergone extensive hybridization, resulting in a vast array of forms and colors, with cultivars like this example being a testament to that ongoing process.
The subsequent sections will delve into the optimal cultivation practices, potential pest and disease management strategies, and ideal uses for these distinct floral specimens within diverse horticultural settings. A further exploration will cover its placement in garden design and suitable companion plants.
1. Striking bi-color blooms
The allure of the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia is undeniably rooted in its striking bi-color blooms. These aren’t mere splashes of color; they are a carefully orchestrated visual performance, the very essence of the flower’s appeal and a primary reason for its widespread admiration.
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A Visual Magnet
The bi-color nature acts as a visual magnet, instantly drawing the eye. The contrast, often a fiery red against a sunny yellow, is a bold statement. In a garden bed filled with single-hued blossoms, the ‘Show n Tell’ immediately commands attention, becoming a focal point and a conversation starter. The bi-color nature is not subtle and it’s like a painting that nature did.
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A Florist’s Dream
For florists, the bi-color blooms present a canvas of opportunity. They introduce dynamism and depth to arrangements that a single-colored flower often lacks. The blooms can be paired with complementary colors to enhance their vibrancy or used as a counterpoint to soften an arrangement, offering versatility and impact. Whether for weddings or everyday bouquets, these blooms elevate the design.
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Genetic Marvel
The existence of the blooms is a testament to horticultural science and natural genetics. The blooms reflect selective breeding and genetic variation. The ability to create and sustain such distinct color combinations is a marvel, a captivating example of the potential within the plant kingdom.
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Name Origin Echo
The descriptive name itself is deeply connected to its striking appearance. The variety’s vibrant and attention-grabbing nature is what gave rise to the memorable name. This connection highlights the importance of these blooms, solidifying its place in horticultural nomenclature. In essence, the flower announces its presence, showcasing its colors with pride.
These different elements show the story and beauty. Without the bi-color nature, the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia would not possess the same allure. It is this defining characteristic that elevates it from a simple flower to a showstopper, securing its place in gardens and hearts around the world.
2. Decorative flower form
The “Show n Tell” dahlia is categorized as having a decorative flower form. This is not merely a technical classification; it is the very foundation of its aesthetic appeal. Unlike other dahlia types that possess an open center or distinct petal arrangements, the decorative form exhibits a fully double bloom. Multiple layers of broad, flat petals unfurl in a captivating, almost chaotic abundance, concealing the central disc entirely. This density of petals creates a sense of fullness and opulence that defines its visual impact, directly contributing to its “showy” reputation.
Consider the practical implications of this form. The absence of a central disc translates to a larger surface area of color. In the “Show n Tell”, where the bi-color patterns are so prominent, this amplified surface intensifies the visual contrast between the two hues. Picture a single bloom on display: the sheer volume of colorful petals, densely packed and elegantly arranged, commands attention. The decorative form, therefore, acts as a magnifying glass, intensifying the dahlia’s inherent beauty and making it an ideal candidate for exhibitions and floral design. It is the form itself that transforms the dahlia from a simple flower into a statement piece, a focal point that draws the eye and sparks conversation.
In summary, the decorative flower form is inextricably linked to the “Show n Tell” dahlia’s identity. It is the architecture upon which its vibrant colors and striking appearance are built. Understanding this connection allows for a deeper appreciation of its aesthetic qualities and informs its ideal use in both garden design and floral arrangements. The form itself is not merely a characteristic, but a key element in the dahlia’s ability to “show” its beauty and “tell” its story.
3. Large bloom size
The ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia’s large bloom size is not merely a physical attribute; it’s a defining characteristic that amplifies its visual impact and enhances its allure. It elevates the flower from a simple bloom to a horticultural statement, commanding attention and securing its place in gardens and exhibitions.
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Enhanced Visibility and Impact
The sheer size of the bloom ensures it doesn’t go unnoticed. In a garden setting, it becomes a focal point, a beacon drawing the eye from afar. The expansive surface area showcases the bi-color petals in all their glory, magnifying their vibrant hues and intricate patterns. The scale transforms the dahlia into a bold declaration of color and form.
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Ideal Exhibition Specimen
At horticultural shows, size matters. The ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia’s large blooms adhere to that rule. Its substantial presence conveys vigor and successful cultivation. Judges often favor blooms that display both size and impeccable form, qualities that this cultivar readily embodies. The large size serves as a tangible representation of the gardener’s skill and dedication.
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Floral Design Versatility
Florists prize the large bloom size for its impact and versatility. A single ‘Show n Tell’ can anchor a large arrangement, providing a dramatic centerpiece. Alternatively, its generous size allows it to be divided and incorporated into smaller designs, adding a touch of extravagance to each. It’s a bloom that adapts to diverse design needs, enhancing creativity and visual appeal.
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Symbolism of Abundance and Opulence
Throughout history, large flowers have often been associated with abundance and opulence. The ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia, with its substantial bloom size, taps into this symbolism. It embodies a sense of generosity, a lavish display of nature’s artistry. Its size is a visual cue, evoking feelings of admiration and wonder.
In essence, the large bloom size of the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia isn’t just a physical measurement; it’s a crucial element that elevates the flower to a position of prominence. It enhances visibility, contributes to exhibition success, expands floral design possibilities, and evokes deeper symbolic meanings. Its large size is intrinsically linked to its captivating presence.
4. Hybrid Origin
The “Show n Tell” dahlia exists not by chance, but by designa direct consequence of its hybrid origin. Dahlias, native to the highlands of Mexico, arrived in Europe in the late 18th century. The initial specimens, relatively plain compared to modern cultivars, sparked immediate interest. What followed was a period of intense hybridization, a deliberate manipulation of plant genetics with the goal of creating novel forms and colors. The “Show n Tell,” with its bi-colored petals and distinctive decorative form, stands as a testament to that ambitious endeavor.
The process of creating such a hybrid is a complex dance between art and science. Breeders carefully select parent plants with desirable traits a particular shade of red, a certain petal arrangement and cross-pollinate them, hoping to combine those traits in the offspring. The resulting seeds are then sown, and the subsequent plants evaluated. Only those that exhibit the desired characteristics are propagated further. This rigorous selection process, repeated over multiple generations, eventually leads to the stabilization of a new cultivar. The “Show n Tell” dahlia, therefore, is the product of countless crosses, selections, and rejections, a lineage shaped by human intervention.
Understanding the hybrid origin of the “Show n Tell” dahlia provides context for its unique traits. It explains why this particular cultivar boasts such vibrant colors and a precisely defined form. Moreover, it underscores the importance of preserving genetic diversity within the dahlia family, as this diversity provides the raw material for future hybridization efforts. The “Show n Tell” serves as a reminder that even the most seemingly natural wonders often bear the mark of human creativity and ingenuity.
5. Garden focal point
A garden, at its essence, is a curated narrative. Each plant, each stone, each carefully placed element contributes to a story told through color, texture, and form. The ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia, with its unapologetic vibrancy, possesses the innate ability to become the protagonist of this narrative. It seizes attention, dictating the rhythm and flow of the surrounding landscape. Its inherent drama transforms a mere collection of plants into a cohesive, engaging composition.
Consider a meticulously planned border: a tapestry of subtle greens, punctuated by gentle blues and soft pinks. Introduce a single ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia. Immediately, the eye is drawn, irresistibly, to its bold bi-color blooms. The surrounding plants no longer exist in isolation; they become supporting characters, their purpose redefined by the presence of this dominant figure. The dahlia’s stature commands that other hues and shapes bow before it, allowing its brilliance to take the spotlight. In smaller gardens, a single specimen, perfectly positioned, can achieve a similar effect, creating an illusion of depth and expansive grandeur within a limited space. It is the plant that invites admiration; the focal point’s gravitational pull.
The selection of a garden’s focal point is a deliberate act of artistic intent. The ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia, by its very nature, readily accepts this role. Its presence ensures a garden is not merely seen, but experienced, remembered, and, ultimately, admired. Without such focal elements, the narrative is weak, and the story falls flat, the ‘Show n Tell’ and its bi-colored presentation will ensure your garden provides years of discussion between family members or visitors.
6. Exhibition popularity
The journey of a dahlia to the exhibition stage is a rigorous trial, a test of horticultural skill and natural endowment. For the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia, this arena is not merely a showcase; it is a domain where its unique qualities grant it considerable favor. Its popularity at these events is not accidental; it is earned.
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Visual Impact as a Decisive Factor
Exhibitions prioritize visual impact. The ‘Show n Tell,’ with its striking bi-color blooms and substantial size, naturally excels in this arena. Judges, tasked with discerning subtle differences in form and color, are invariably drawn to its confident display. The bloom presents a harmonious clash that most flowers fail to deliver.
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Conformation to Ideal Horticultural Standards
Beyond mere aesthetics, dahlia exhibitions adhere to stringent standards of horticultural excellence. Stem strength, foliage health, and overall presentation are carefully scrutinized. The ‘Show n Tell,’ when cultivated properly, consistently meets these criteria, making it a reliable contender for accolades. The flower should be healthy and strong when displayed.
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Rarity and Novelty as Added Advantages
While established cultivars are always welcome, exhibitions often reward novelty. A well-grown ‘Show n Tell’ possesses a unique blend of familiarity and visual intrigue. It is a recognizable dahlia, yet its vibrant color combination distinguishes it from the commonplace, captivating the judges and attendees alike.
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Gardener Skill Demonstrations
Exhibitions are more than just flower shows; they are demonstrations of horticultural mastery. The ‘Show n Tell,’ known for demanding proper care, serves as an effective canvas for these skills. The gardeners themselves prove they are the best with a particular beauty skill.
The convergence of visual appeal, horticultural soundness, and inherent uniqueness establishes the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia as a recurrent presence in exhibition halls. Its popularity is not a matter of chance; it is a validation of its intrinsic qualities and a tribute to the skill of those who cultivate it to its full potential.
7. Vibrant Color
The “Show n Tell” dahlia’s very essence resides in its vibrant color. It is the genesis of its name, the foundation of its appeal, and the key to its coveted status in gardens and exhibitions. Remove the vibrancy, dull the hues, and what remains is a mere shadow of its former self, a generic bloom stripped of its defining characteristic. The connection is not merely superficial; it is intrinsic. Without the bold and contrasting colors, the “Show n Tell” loses its voice, its power to command attention.
The effect of this vibrant color is profound. In a garden setting, it acts as a beacon, drawing the eye from across the lawn. Within a floral arrangement, it injects dynamism and energy. At an exhibition, it captivates judges, setting it apart from its competitors. Consider the practical implications: gardeners strategically position the “Show n Tell” to create focal points, florists utilize its colors to evoke specific emotions, and exhibitors nurture its vibrancy to secure awards. The understanding of this connection dictates how the dahlia is cultivated, displayed, and appreciated.
The challenge lies in maintaining this vibrancy. Sunlight, soil quality, and proper fertilization play crucial roles. Fading colors signal distress, a warning that the dahlia’s needs are not being met. Yet, the rewards for diligent care are substantial. The “Show n Tell,” when nurtured to its full potential, serves as a potent reminder of nature’s artistry, a testament to the enduring power of vibrant color to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. The dahlia stands alone in its vibrant color to deliver such a visual presentation.
8. Floral Arrangement
The “Show n Tell” dahlia finds a compelling stage within the art of floral arrangement, its unique characteristics transforming simple bouquets into dynamic displays. The relationship is symbiotic, the dahlia lending its vibrant color and striking form, while the arrangement provides context and purpose. This interplay elevates both the flower and the craft, creating a synergy far greater than the sum of their parts. The plant helps the floral arrangement deliver a visual performance.
Consider a wedding bouquet: ivory roses and delicate freesias form a classic, understated foundation. Yet, the inclusion of a single “Show n Tell” dahlia injects an element of surprise, a burst of unexpected color that instantly draws the eye. Alternatively, in a contemporary arrangement featuring minimalist foliage and stark lines, the dahlia acts as a counterpoint, its opulent form softening the severity of the design. Its versatility knows no bounds, as it stands alone or alongside other colors in order to deliver a unique design. The plant provides the structure for delivery of this unique presentation.
However, understanding this connection requires more than a cursory appreciation of aesthetics. It demands a recognition of the dahlia’s individual qualities: its large bloom size, its decorative form, and its inherent dynamism. The floral designer must consider these factors when incorporating the “Show n Tell,” ensuring that its presence enhances, rather than overwhelms, the overall composition. The designer and the plant must have the same visual goal to deliver that unique beauty to the performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Like whispers from seasoned gardeners, questions regarding the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia often arise. Here are some clarifications to quell your curiosity.
Question 1: Is the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia truly as demanding as some claim?
The ‘Show n Tell’ has earned a reputation for requiring a certain degree of finesse. While not inherently temperamental, it thrives with consistent attention. Regular watering, proper fertilization, and diligent pest control are crucial. Neglect any of these, and the plant may withhold its spectacular display. It rewards the diligent gardener with unparalleled beauty, therefore it requires effort and determination.
Question 2: Can the colors of a ‘Show n Tell’ bloom vary significantly?
While the general bi-color pattern remains consistent, slight variations can occur. Soil composition, sunlight exposure, and even temperature fluctuations can influence the intensity and balance of the colors. A plant grown in acidic soil may exhibit deeper reds, while one in full sun might display brighter yellows. The plant delivers variations due to the variations of the earth around it.
Question 3: How does one ensure a ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia produces large blooms?
Achieving truly impressive bloom size requires a multi-pronged approach. Start with a healthy tuber, plant in nutrient-rich soil, provide consistent moisture, and fertilize regularly. Disbudding, the practice of removing side buds, directs the plant’s energy towards producing fewer, but larger, flowers. A green thumb is required to deliver the best and biggest blossoms.
Question 4: Are there specific pests that particularly target this dahlia variety?
The ‘Show n Tell’ is susceptible to the same pests that plague other dahlias: aphids, spider mites, and earwigs. Regular inspection is crucial. A sharp eye and early intervention are key to keeping these unwanted guests at bay. Pests cause such damage and concern.
Question 5: Is the ‘Show n Tell’ suitable for growing in containers?
While primarily a garden plant, the ‘Show n Tell’ can be grown in containers, provided certain conditions are met. Use a large pot with ample drainage, choose a well-draining potting mix, and ensure the plant receives adequate sunlight and water. Container-grown dahlias may require more frequent fertilization. The garden and container offer two different visual experiences.
Question 6: Can seed saving produce similar results?
Dahlias are hybrids, so seeds from these plants are unlikely to result in ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia look-alikes. The best and only way to produce more ‘Show n Tell’ dahlias is through tubers.
In summary, the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia is not without its demands. However, these demands are rewarded with a magnificent display of vibrant color and form. The answers above will help ensure it lives to its greatest potential.
The following section will discuss best practice for taking pictures of the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia.
Capturing the Essence
Documenting the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia requires more than a simple snapshot; it demands an understanding of its character, a translation of its vibrant spirit into a still image. The following insights, gleaned from seasoned photographers, offer guidance in this pursuit.
Tip 1: Embrace the Golden Hour. The harsh midday sun washes out color, obliterating the subtle nuances of the bi-color petals. Instead, seek the soft, diffused light of the golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset. This light caresses the bloom, accentuating its textures and deepening its hues, turning a simple photograph into a work of art.
Tip 2: Control the Background. A cluttered background distracts from the subject, diluting the dahlia’s impact. Opt for a clean, uncluttered backdrop a swath of green foliage, a blurred-out fence, or even a sheet of dark fabric. The goal is to isolate the bloom, allowing its beauty to take center stage without visual competition.
Tip 3: Master the Art of Composition. The rule of thirds is a valuable guideline, dividing the frame into nine equal parts and placing the dahlia at one of the intersecting points. However, rules are meant to be broken. Experiment with different angles, framing the bloom from below to emphasize its height or capturing it from above to showcase its intricate petal arrangement. Consider the dahlia within its surrounding environment, a symbiotic picture of beauty,.
Tip 4: Focus with Precision. Soft focus may create a dreamy effect, but it sacrifices detail, obscuring the delicate textures and subtle color gradations. Utilize a narrow aperture to achieve sharp focus, ensuring that every petal is rendered with clarity. Employ manual focus if necessary, scrutinizing the image through the lens to achieve pinpoint accuracy. Macro photography is a skill to hone.
Tip 5: Capture the Details. While the overall form is captivating, the true magic of the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia lies in its intricate details. Zoom in close, capturing the velvet-like texture of the petals, the subtle veins that run through them, and the delicate droplets of dew that cling to their surface. These details, often overlooked, reveal the true essence of the bloom.
Tip 6: Highlight that bi-color. The primary reason the “Show n Tell” dahlia stands out is its distinct bi-color separation. Use color temperature and lighting angles to highlight and accentuate that distinction, giving that extra “pop” for your viewers.
These tips, when diligently applied, elevate the photography of the ‘Show n Tell’ dahlia from mere documentation to artistic expression. They transform a fleeting moment of beauty into a lasting image, a testament to the dahlia’s enduring allure.
The next section will conclude the article with additional advice.
The Enduring Narrative of “Show n Tell Dahlia”
From its vibrant bi-colored blooms to its lauded status in horticultural exhibitions, the preceding exploration has charted the many facets of the “Show n Tell dahlia.” Its decorative flower form, the product of deliberate hybrid origin, grants it both visual prominence and an inherent versatility, allowing it to serve as a captivating focal point in gardens and a dynamic element within floral arrangements. To nurture and photograph this cultivar is to engage with a story etched in petals and pigments, a narrative of horticultural artistry and nature’s captivating spectacle.
May the insights shared herein inspire further exploration and cultivation of this remarkable dahlia. The “Show n Tell” stands as a testament to the enduring power of beauty to captivate and inspire, a botanical embodiment of nature’s boundless creativity. With each bloom, it offers a new chapter, a fresh opportunity to witness and share its story with the world. It is an experience that is sure to deliver long lasting memories.
