Species
Dahlia imperialisTree Dahlia4 other cultivars
Same species
Species
Dahlia imperialisTree Dahlia4 other cultivars
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
120 inches
Width
60 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Central America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia imperialis, the Tree Dahlia, is a towering herbaceous perennial with thick, bamboo-like stems and large, bipinnate leaves. It produces flowers late in the season. 'California Angel' is a cultivar noted for its very large, single, lavender-pink flowers with a golden center, blooming atop the tall stems in late autumn.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Plant tubers 4-6 inches deep in early spring after the last frost.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season.
- Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained soil and mulch to retain moisture.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently during the growing season 🌱
- Provide staking for tall varieties
- Apply fertilizer monthly
Don't
- Overwater to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering ❌
- Neglect staking for tall plants ❌
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Stake |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
California Angel Dahlia questions
What zones can California Angel Dahlia grow in?
California Angel 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 California Angel Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse California Angel Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does California Angel Dahlia bloom?
California Angel 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 California Angel Dahlia need full sun?
California Angel Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).
More Dahlia to compare
Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis
Dinnerplate Cutting Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Dinnerplate Cutting Blend'
Hart Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis 'Hart'
Babette Giant Ball Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Babette Giant Ball'
Dahlia Mix
Dahlia x hybrida 'Mix'
Lady Darlene Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata 'Lady Darlene'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow California Angel 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.