The ‘Purple Fox’ Dahlia captivates with vibrant blooms and versatile nature. Bred in the Netherlands by Verwer Dahlias, this variety offers striking visual appeal in various garden settings. Its popularity stems from consistent flowering and ability to perform well in mixed borders, containers, or as a cut flower. It is a favored choice for adding color and elegance to outdoor spaces.
Distinctive Characteristics
The ‘Purple Fox’ Dahlia features miniature pompom blooms, typically measuring 8-10 cm in diameter. These flowers display a vivid magenta or fuchsia hue, offering a powerful punch of color. The petals are tightly packed and can appear slightly quilled, resembling lollipops on stems, adding unique texture to garden displays.
These blooms are held on strong, long stems, positioned above the foliage. The plant reaches 60-90 cm (24-36 inches) tall and spreads about 50 cm (20 inches). ‘Purple Fox’ is free-flowering, producing weather-resistant blooms from midsummer (July) until autumn (November).
Planting and Site Selection
Proper site selection and planting are crucial for ‘Purple Fox’ Dahlias. They thrive in a sunny position, requiring full sun for vibrant blooming. Optimal flowering occurs in full sunlight, though partial shade is acceptable. The soil should be moist and well-drained to prevent rot.
Before planting, enriching the soil with well-rotted manure or compost improves soil fertility and drainage. Dahlia tubers should be planted outdoors in April, after frost risk has passed and soil temperature reaches 60°F. Dig a 15 cm (6 inches) deep hole, wide enough for the tuber, placing it with the “eyes” or cut stem end facing upwards. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
Ongoing Cultivation and Maintenance
Once planted, ‘Purple Fox’ Dahlias require consistent care for continuous blooming. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, keeps the soil consistently moist. Prevent the soil from drying out completely, which can stress the plant and reduce flower production. Consistent feeding with an appropriate fertilizer promotes prolific blooming.
Pinching young plants encourages bushier growth and more flowers. Deadheading (removing spent flowers) encourages new blooms. Staking may be needed for their tall, flower-laden stems, especially in windy conditions.
Overwintering and Tuber Care
In colder climates, ‘Purple Fox’ Dahlia tubers must be lifted and stored over winter. Dahlias are half-hardy and perennial only in USDA Zones 8-10. Begin preparing tubers after the first hard frost, signaling the end of the growing season.
Carefully dig up tubers to avoid damage. Gently clean excess soil. Dry them in a cool, well-ventilated area for several days to prevent rot. Store dried tubers in trays of peat, sand, or wood shavings in a cool, dark, frost-free location (e.g., basement or unheated closet) until spring. This preserves them for replanting next spring.