Description
Elevate your garden with the spectacular Dahlia ‘Striped Nagano’. This exquisite “Waterlily” type dahlia is famous for its perfectly symmetrical, layered petals that resemble a floating lotus. Each bloom is a unique work of art, featuring bold, fire-red petals splashed and tipped with brilliant snowy white. No two flowers are exactly alike, ensuring your garden stays dynamic and surprising all summer long.
Key Features for Malta:
Elegant Waterlily Form: The flattened, broad petals create a sophisticated “waterlily” shape that adds a touch of zen-like beauty to Maltese courtyards and borders.
High Contrast Colors: The vibrant red and white stripes provide a high-impact visual that pops against green garden foliage and stands out even in the bright Mediterranean light.
Prolific Bloomer: ‘Striped Nagano’ is known for being a hardworking plant, producing a continuous supply of flowers from early summer right through the Maltese autumn.
Fantastic Cut Flower: Its long, straight stems and symmetrical flower heads make it a premier choice for floral arrangements. It brings an immediate designer look to any indoor space.
Expert Tips for Growing ‘Striped Nagano’ in Malta: To ensure the most vibrant colors and healthiest plant:
Sun & Soil: Plant in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. In Malta, adding some organic compost to the planting hole helps retain the right amount of moisture during the dry summer months.
Consistent Watering: To maintain the crispness of the white stripes and the intensity of the red, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching is highly recommended to keep the roots cool.
Encourage Branching: When the plant is about 30cm high, “pinch out” the main growing tip. This encourages the dahlia to become bushier and produce even more flower-bearing stems.
Regular Feeding: Use a balanced fertilizer during the early growth phase, switching to a high-potash feed (like tomato fertilizer) once the first buds appear to boost the flower quality.
Wind Protection: While the stems are sturdy, the “Waterlily” heads can catch the wind. Planting in a slightly sheltered spot or providing a simple stake will protect the plant during summer storms.
Color: Red with White Stripes/Tips.
Bloom Time: July – November.
Height: Approx. 90 – 100 cm.
Season: Summer Bloomer.
Other Names: Dahlia Striped Nagano, Waterlily Dahlia Striped Nagano, Red and White Striped Dahlia, Bicolor Decorative Dahlia
