Species

Dahlia pinnataPinnate Dahlia

34 other cultivars

perennial

Merlot Magic Dahlia

Dahlia pinnata 'Merlot Magic'

The Story

Plant Bio

Compact and bushy with vibrant flowers.

Distinctive burgundy color with a unique star-shaped flower.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias provide vibrant, show-stopping flowers perfect for borders and containers.

Long-lasting blooms attract pollinators, supporting garden biodiversity.

Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, enhancing local ecosystems.

SpeciesDahlia pinnataPinnate Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36"

Width

24"

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Tender perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to dogs and cats

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
Tuck dormant tubers 4-6 inches deep in early spring after frost.
Water thoroughly after planting and keep soil moist.
Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during growing season.
Pinch back the tips to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich the soil for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 💧
Deadhead to prolong flowering 🌸
Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Stake tall varieties to prevent flopping

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
Don’t forget to remove dead or diseased foliage
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent leggy growth
Avoid planting in poorly-draining soil

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 perennial flower borderColorful container displaySunny garden beds with striking visual impact

Companion Plants

Marigolds Salvia Zinnia CosmosLavender

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Merlot Magic Dahlia questions

What zones can Merlot Magic Dahlia grow in?

Merlot Magic 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 Merlot Magic Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Merlot Magic Dahlia bloom?

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

Does Merlot Magic Dahlia need full sun?

Merlot Magic Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).