35 named cultivars

perennial

Pinnate Dahlia

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia pinnata is known for its striking flowers and is popular in gardens for its vibrant colors and long blooming season.

This species features large, showy blooms that can vary in color, making it an excellent choice for cut flower arrangements.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias provide vibrant, showy flowers that enhance garden aesthetics and floral arrangements.

They attract pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.

Dahlias help sustain beneficial insects and can be integrated into sustainable landscapes.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Tender perennial, hardy in zones 8-10

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck tubers into soil 6 inches deep in early spring after danger of frost passes.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle soil around tubers.
Mist cuttings or start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before last frost date.
Transplant seedlings outdoors once they are strong and soil has warmed.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Pro Tip

Mulch around plants to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy 🌱
Deadhead spent blooms to promote more flowers
Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage
Divide clumps every 2-3 years for vigorous growth

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
Don’t forget to remove diseased or damaged foliage
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
Do not plant in poorly drained soil

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

Brightly colored border plantVivid cut flower for arrangementsContainer planting on patios

Companion Plants

Marigolds CosmosZinnias SalviaBasil

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Pinnate Dahlia questions

What zones can Pinnate Dahlia grow in?

Pinnate 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 Pinnate Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Pinnate Dahlia bloom?

Pinnate 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 Pinnate Dahlia need full sun?

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