Black Jack Dahlia Key Characteristics
Bloom Size: 8-10 inches in diameter
Bloom Size Classification: AA (Giant) – This size is ideal for both garden and cut flower uses.
Color: Dark maroon, almost black, with a velvety finish. The deep color adds a sense of mystery and elegance to any space.
Cut Flower Quality: Excellent – Black Jack is highly regarded as an outstanding cut flower due to its striking color, strong stems, and long-lasting blooms.
Days to Bloom: 80 to 100 days after planting, depending on growing conditions.
Flower Form: SC (Semi Cactus) – This dahlia flower has a double bloom and spiky, star-shaped petals rolled in for about half their length. The long, narrow petals create a striking, dynamic appearance that adds texture and movement to the flower.
Plant Height: 4 to 5 feet
Plant Spacing: 18 to 24 inches
Pinching Height: Pinch the main stem when it reaches about 12 to 18 inches to encourage bushier growth and produce more flowers.
Harvesting and Vase Life
Harvesting: For optimal quality, harvest when the blooms are fully open but still fresh and vibrant, with the petals in their full color and form but not yet wilting. The best time to cut the flowers is early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler and the blooms are dry and flowers are most hydrated. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle, leaving at least 6 inches of stem for easier arrangement and better water uptake.
Vase Life: Dahlias typically last 3 to 5 days, but some varieties can last up to 11 days in a vase with proper care. Place them in clean, cool water, and ensure that the stems are submerged. To extend vase life, change the water every 2–3 days and trim the stems slightly at an angle with each water change. Keep flowers out of direct sunlight. Using a floral preservative can help keep the flowers fresh and vibrant for a longer period. Remove any submerged leaves to prevent bacterial growth and ensure that the water stays clean, which will help prolong the life of the flowers.
