perennial

Star Dahlia

Dahlia pinnata 'Star'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia pinnata 'Star' is known for its attractive pink flowers and bushy growth habit. It produces numerous blooms throughout the summer and into the fall.

This cultivar features star-shaped flowers, which add unique visual interest to gardens.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesVivid, large blossoms add striking color to gardens and bouquets.
Practical UsesCut flowers last long, providing fresh indoor decor.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinators like bees and butterflies.
SpeciesDahlia pinnataPinnate Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

18 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Regular watering, keep soil moist

Humidity

Prefers moderate humidity

Lifespan

Perennial in USDA zones 8-11

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

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F
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M
J
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In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers 2 inches deep in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage.
  4. Pinch out the growing tips to encourage bushier growth.
  5. Fertilize biweekly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun with rich, well-draining soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week 🌱
  • Provide staking for tall varieties
  • Deadhead regularly to extend flowering

Don't

  • Overwater to avoid tuber rot ❌
  • Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings ❌
  • Neglect staking for tall plants ❌

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

Colorful border with vibrant bloomsContainer display for patiosCut flower arrangements

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias CosmosSalviaSweet alyssum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Star Dahlia questions

What zones can Star Dahlia grow in?

Star 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 Star Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Star Dahlia bloom?

Star 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 Star Dahlia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Star Dahlia 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.