perennial

Dahlia 'Terracotta'

Dahlia x hybrida 'Terracotta'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia x hybrida 'Terracotta' is a tuberous perennial known for its bushy growth habit, fully double, decorative-type flowers in shades of burnt orange, and lush, dark green foliage.

This cultivar is distinguished by its warm, earthy flower tones that add richness to summer borders and its excellent garden performance with long-lasting blooms.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesCreates a vibrant, colorful display that enhances garden aesthetics.
Practical UsesProvides cut flowers for indoor arrangements, extending garden beauty indoors.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies with abundant nectar.
SpeciesDahlia x hybridaGarden Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

48 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Mexico and Central America

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs and cats

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers 4 inches deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
  4. Pinch back young plants to encourage bushiness.
  5. Stake tall varieties to support heavy blooms.
  6. Lift and store tubers in fall in colder zones.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sunny spot with rich, well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week 🌱
  • Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
  • Provide support for tall stems

Don't

  • Overwater to prevent tuber rot ❌
  • Avoid planting in poorly drained soil
  • Do not fertilize late in the season

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pest Check
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Bright floral borderContainer display with vibrant colorsCut flower arrangement

Companion Plants

Marigolds SalviaPetunias Zinnias Cosmos

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dahlia 'Terracotta' questions

What zones can Dahlia 'Terracotta' grow in?

Dahlia 'Terracotta' is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Dahlia 'Terracotta' deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Dahlia 'Terracotta', especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Dahlia 'Terracotta' bloom?

Dahlia 'Terracotta' typically blooms in mid-summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Dahlia 'Terracotta' need full sun?

Dahlia 'Terracotta' does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Dahlia 'Terracotta' with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.