Species
Dahlia cactusCactus Dahlia8 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Chat Noir is known for its striking dark, almost black flowers with a spiky appearance typical of cactus dahlias.
This cultivar is unique for its dark coloring which is rare among dahlias, making it a dramatic focal point in gardens.
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
Tender perennial
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Toxic to dogs, cats, and horses
Bloom period
Late summer – Early fall
In flower about 2 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Plant tubers in well-draining soil in spring after the last frost.
- Tuck tubers 4-6 inches deep, with the eyes facing upward.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Mist cuttings or start from tubers in early spring indoors for earlier blooms.
- Ensure bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
Pro Tip
Use a cactus-style pot with excellent drainage for container cultivation.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply but infrequently to prevent rot 🌱
- Provide full sun for optimal flowering
- Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growth
- Stake tall varieties to support stems
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause tuber rot ❌
- Do not expose to frost; bring indoors or mulch heavily in cold climates
- Refrain from disturbing tubers during the growing season
- Don't plant in heavy clay soil without amendments
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
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Chat Noir Dahlia questions
What zones can Chat Noir Dahlia grow in?
Chat Noir 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 Chat Noir Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Chat Noir Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Chat Noir Dahlia bloom?
Chat Noir 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 Chat Noir Dahlia need full sun?
Chat Noir 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 Chat Noir 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.