Species
Dahlia cactusCactus Dahlia8 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia 'Color Spectacle' features vibrant, multicolored blooms characteristic of cactus dahlias, known for their spiky, petal formation.
This cultivar stands out for its unique blend of bright colors and robust growth habit, making it popular for gardens and floral arrangements.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
48 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Tender perennial
Native To
Central America
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
- Tuck seeds or tubers into well-drained soil after the last frost.
- Water regularly to keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering and growth.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Pinch back early growth to promote bushier plants.
- Lift and store tubers in winter if grown in colder zones.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant blooms.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Support tall varieties with stakes or cages
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season to prevent leggy growth
- Never leave tubers exposed to freezing temperatures
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Color Spectacle Dahlia questions
What zones can Color Spectacle Dahlia grow in?
Color Spectacle 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 Color Spectacle Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Color Spectacle Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Color Spectacle Dahlia bloom?
Color Spectacle 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 Color Spectacle Dahlia need full sun?
Color Spectacle Dahlia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
More Dahlia to compare
Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis
Dinnerplate Cutting Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Dinnerplate Cutting Blend'
Hart Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis 'Hart'
Dahlia Mix
Dahlia x hybrida 'Mix'
Babette Giant Ball Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Babette Giant Ball'
Lady Darlene Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Lady Darlene'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Color Spectacle 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.