Tuberous summer stars in an astonishing range of forms and colours, from pompons to dinner-plate blooms. Lift or mulch the tubers in cold districts; deadhead for months of cut flowers.
At a glance
- Plant type: Bulb
- Mature size: 1.2 m H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: moderate maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Dahlia
Dahlia hybrid is a fast-growing bulb in the Asteraceae family. It reaches around 1.2 m tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Red, pink, yellow, orange, purple and white flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Dahlia
Dahlia suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Dahlia provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Dahlia is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Dahlia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is moderate maintenance.
Using Dahlia in the garden
Dahlia earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, a feature or specimen planting, feeding bees and pollinators and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Dahlia with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Group three or five together for impact rather than dotting single plants through the garden.
Buying Dahlia
Plant Sale lists Dahlia as bulbs. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.