‘Rawhide’ dahlia is a striking cultivar known for its unique blend of warm tones and captivating petal structures. Its visual appeal comes from dynamic color shifts and its classification as a waterlily-form dahlia, making it a popular choice for gardens and bouquets.
Rawhide Dahlia Characteristics
The ‘Rawhide’ dahlia displays a complex palette of colors, featuring blends of mauve and soft peach with burgundy interiors and subtle golden undertones. Blooms may showcase peachy-orange tones that transition from pale yellow centers to soft peach and tangerine outer petals, often outlined in maroon. The reverse of the petals can also reveal rich maroon hues, adding striking contrast.
The petals of the ‘Rawhide’ dahlia are characterized by their waterlily form. These petals are generally flat, but can exhibit slight waviness or twisting, contributing to a softer, more relaxed appearance. Blooms typically measure between 4 and 6 inches across. Plants generally reach a height of 4 to 5 feet.
Planting and Growing Conditions
For ‘Rawhide’ dahlias, select a site with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily; afternoon shade can be beneficial in intense summer heat. The soil should be well-draining and rich in organic matter, like compost or aged manure. Dahlias prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically ranging from 6.0 to 7.5.
Plant tubers in spring after the last frost, when soil temperature consistently reaches about 60°F (15°C), similar to when tomatoes are planted locally. Dig a hole 4 to 6 inches deep and lay the tuber horizontally with the “eye” facing upwards. Cover with a few inches of soil, spacing plants 12 to 18 inches apart. Water minimally until green shoots emerge, as overwatering before sprouting can cause tuber rot.
Ongoing Cultivation and Maintenance
Once ‘Rawhide’ dahlia plants establish and green shoots appear, consistent watering is important, especially during dry periods. Deep water two to three times a week to ensure moisture reaches the tubers. Avoid excessive watering, which can lead to soggy soil and rot.
Fertilize with a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus and potassium fertilizer (e.g., 5-10-10 or 10-20-20) to encourage blooms over leafy growth. Apply the first dose about 30 days after planting, then monthly throughout the growing season. Due to their height and large blooms, ‘Rawhide’ dahlias benefit from staking or support systems, ideally installed at planting time. Regularly deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers.
Winterizing and Tuber Storage
In most climates, ‘Rawhide’ dahlia tubers are not cold-hardy and require digging and indoor storage for winter. Dig after the first light frost blackens the foliage, signaling dormancy. Leaving tubers in the ground for one to two weeks after this frost helps them develop “eyes” and toughen their skin for storage. Dig before a hard freeze, as frozen tubers will not survive.
Cut stems back to 4 to 8 inches above ground. Use a pitchfork to loosen soil 6 to 12 inches from the main stem, gently lifting the tuber clump to avoid damage. After digging, gently remove excess soil; washing is optional. Cure tubers by drying them in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area out of direct sunlight for one to seven days.
Once cured, inspect each tuber for damage, softness, or disease, discarding compromised ones. Store healthy tubers in a cool, dark, dry location, ideally between 40-50°F (4-10°C) with 75-85% humidity. Acceptable storage mediums include peat moss, vermiculite, or wood shavings, which help maintain moisture. Periodically check tubers throughout winter for rot, mold, or shriveling, adjusting humidity or ventilation as needed.