Species
Dahlia chocChocolate CosmosThe Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia 'Karma Choc' produces deep chocolate-red flowers and has a bushy habit.
Known for its unique dark coloration and excellent performance as a cut flower.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Mildly toxic to dogs and cats 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 taller varieties to support heavy blooms.
- Deadhead spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant tubers 4-6 inches deep in rich, well-draining soil for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells 💧
- Apply fertilizer monthly during active growth
- Deadhead to prolong flowering
- Stake tall varieties for support
Don't
- Overwater, causing tuber rot ❌
- Neglect staking for tall dahlias
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering
- Forget to remove dead flowers
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Karma Choc Dahlia questions
What zones can Karma Choc Dahlia grow in?
Karma Choc 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 Karma Choc Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Karma Choc Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Karma Choc Dahlia bloom?
Karma Choc 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 Karma Choc Dahlia need full sun?
Karma Choc 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 Karma Choc 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.