The Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia 'Bishop of Canterbury' is a tuberous perennial noted for its deep purple-red, single flowers with dark centers, held above contrasting dark bronze-purple foliage.
A member of the 'Bishop' series, this dahlia is prized for the dramatic contrast between its vibrant purple-red flowers and its deep bronze-purple foliage.
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.
Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
- Tuck tubers 4 inches deep in early spring after the last frost.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize with balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth.
- Pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth after planting.
- Lift and store tubers in winter in colder zones.
Pro Tip
Use organic compost to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
- Pinch to promote bushier growth
- Apply fertilizer monthly during blooming season
Don't
- Overwater to prevent tuber rot ❌
- Allow soil to dry out completely between watering ❌
- Avoid disturbing tubers during dormancy
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
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia questions
What zones can Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia grow in?
Bishop of Canterbury 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 Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia bloom?
Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia typically blooms in summer to fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Bishop of Canterbury Dahlia need full sun?
Bishop of Canterbury 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 Bishop of Canterbury 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.

















