Species

Dahlia variabilisDahlia

18 other cultivars

perennial

My Love Dahlia

Dahlia variabilis 'My Love'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia is a genus of tuberous, herbaceous perennial plants native to Mexico and Central America. They are characterized by pinnately compound leaves and produce a wide variety of showy, composite flowers in many colors and forms, blooming from summer to first frost.

'My Love' is a semi-cactus dahlia featuring 4-6 inch blooms with spiky, recurved petals. The flowers are a creamy, ivory-white with a soft primrose-yellow center, creating a delicate and elegant appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias provide vibrant, long-lasting blooms perfect for garden displays and cut flowers, adding color and texture.

Their tubers can be stored for replanting, offering a sustainable flowering solution.

Attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

SpeciesDahlia variabilisDahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

42 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial in USDA zones 8-10, otherwise treat as annual

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to cats, dogs, and horses if ingested.

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or tubers into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Provide full sun for optimal flowering, at least 6 hours daily.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
Divide tubers in early spring or fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently during dry spells 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage new blooms
Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent legginess

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower bordersBright container displaysColorful garden beds

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias SalviaPetunias Cosmos

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

My Love Dahlia questions

What zones can My Love Dahlia grow in?

My Love Dahlia 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 My Love Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does My Love Dahlia bloom?

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

Does My Love Dahlia need full sun?

My Love Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).