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Dahlia imperialis

Tree dahlia

A table displaying which months are best to sow, plant and harvest.
Flowers
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Flowers	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D

Botanical name: Dahlia imperialis
Common name: Tree dahlia
Family: Asteraceae
Plant Type: Perennial, Deciduous

Flower colour:

Pink

Foliage colour:

Green

Key features:
Dramatic foliage
Flowers

Giant dahlia or tree dahlia, Dahlia imperialis, is an enormous species growing to 3m, bearing thick, bamboo-like stems and large, elder-like leaves. It makes a fantastic foliage plant in its own right, however, if grown in a sheltered spot in a mild region, it may bear single, pink-purple blooms with orange-centres, from late October onwards. It’s a great choice for a tropical border but may also be grown in a large greenhouse or conservatory, where its chances of flowering are greatly increased.

Grow Dahlia imperialis in moist but well-drained soil in a sheltered spot in full sun. There’s usually no need to stake. As with all dahlias, lift the tubers and store over winter.

How to grow Dahlia imperialis

Plant size

3m height

1.5m spread
Aspect

South facing, west facing

Sun exposure: Full sun
Hardiness: Tender
Soil type: Well drained / light / sandy

Plant calendar

A table displaying which months are best to sow, plant and harvest.
Plant
	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Plant	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowers
Flowers	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D