Garden hybrid

Dahlia x hybridaGarden Dahlia

39 other cultivars

bulb corm tuber

Thomas Edison Dahlia

Dahlia x hybrida 'Thomas Edison'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia 'Thomas Edison' is noted for its large, vibrant purple flowers that create an impressive display in the garden.

'Thomas Edison' is a Dinnerplate dahlia of the Formal Decorative type, featuring very large, fully double, deep purple flowers up to 8 inches across.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias add vibrant color and dramatic blooms to garden beds and containers, enhancing visual appeal.

Their cut flowers last long in arrangements, providing fresh indoor decor.

Attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesDahlia x hybridaGarden Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Bulb Corm Tuber

Height

42"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Tender perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to pets if ingested.

Bloom period

Mid-summer to fall – Early fall

In flower about 3 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck young plants into the ground after the last frost, spacing 18-24 inches apart.
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry spells.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Pinch out the top growth to encourage bushier plants and remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Lift tubers in fall after the first frost for overwintering in colder zones.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot climates.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply once a week during dry periods 💧
Pinch back to promote bushiness 🌿
Fertilize monthly during active growth
Support tall varieties with stakes
Remove spent flowers to encourage more blooms

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent legginess
Refrain from disturbing tubers in mid-season
Avoid planting in shaded areas where blooms may be sparse

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower bordersColorful container displaysBright garden beds

Companion Plants

Tagetes Salvia Zinnia Cosmos Antirrhinum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Thomas Edison Dahlia questions

What zones can Thomas Edison Dahlia grow in?

Thomas Edison 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 Thomas Edison Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Thomas Edison Dahlia bloom?

Thomas Edison 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 Thomas Edison Dahlia need full sun?

Thomas Edison Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).