Species

Dahlia x hortensisGarden Dahlia

6 other cultivars

perennial

Bishop of Auckland Dahlia

Dahlia x hortensis 'Bishop of Auckland'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlias are tuberous perennials prized for their incredibly diverse and showy flowers, which bloom from mid-summer to the first frost.

'Bishop of Auckland' is a Peony-flowered dahlia with single, open-faced, deep velvety red flowers with dark centers, contrasted against dark bronze-purple foliage.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias add vibrant color and dramatic form to flower beds and containers, creating eye-catching displays.

Their cut flowers last long in arrangements, providing seasonal beauty indoors.

Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesDahlia x hortensisGarden Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable climates

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds or tubers into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth.
Stake tall varieties to support heavy blooms.
Divide tubers in early spring or fall for propagation.

Pro Tip

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

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
Stake tall varieties early to prevent damage

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
Don’t disturb tubers in the late season ❌
Do not fertilize with high nitrogen in late summer ❌
Refrain from neglecting staking tall plants

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
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

Vivid flower bordersBold container plantingsColorful garden beds

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias Salvia CosmosPetunias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bishop of Auckland Dahlia questions

What zones can Bishop of Auckland Dahlia grow in?

Bishop of Auckland 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 Bishop of Auckland Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Bishop of Auckland Dahlia bloom?

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

Does Bishop of Auckland Dahlia need full sun?

Bishop of Auckland Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).