Species

Dahlia cactusCactus Dahlia

8 other cultivars

perennial

Ellen Huston Dahlia

Dahlia cactus 'Ellen Huston'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia 'Ellen Huston' features stunning, large, open blooms characteristic of cactus dahlias. It is known for its striking color and unique petal shape.

This cultivar performs exceptionally well in warmer regions and is prized for its vibrant orange color and ability to attract pollinators.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias add vibrant color and texture to gardens, creating striking visual interest with their diverse shapes and hues.

They can be cut and arranged for floral displays, extending garden beauty indoors.

Attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local ecosystems.

SpeciesDahlia cactusCactus Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Tender perennial

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans, toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around roots.
Mist cuttings or start tubers indoors 6 weeks before last frost.
Plant in full sun for optimal blooms.
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Plant in well-draining soil and provide full sun for vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, keeping soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Pinch back early growth for bushier plants
Apply fertilizer monthly during the growing season

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
Don't forget to mulch to retain moisture
Avoid disturbing tubers during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant flower bordersColorful container displaysLate-season garden focal points

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias Salvia Cosmos Alyssum

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Ellen Huston Dahlia questions

What zones can Ellen Huston Dahlia grow in?

Ellen Huston 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 Ellen Huston Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Ellen Huston Dahlia bloom?

Ellen Huston 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 Ellen Huston Dahlia need full sun?

Ellen Huston Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).