Species

Dahlia variabilisDahlia

18 other cultivars

perennial

Dark Dahlia

Dahlia variabilis 'Scura'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia variabilis 'Scura' is known for its striking dark red flowers and bushy growth habit, making it a popular choice for garden borders and cut flower arrangements.

This cultivar features particularly vibrant, velvety blooms that stand out in the garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Dahlias provide vibrant, long-lasting blooms that brighten gardens and bouquets, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Their tubers can be stored over winter and replanted annually, offering seasonal color and cut flower supply.

Supporting pollinator populations and adding biodiversity to garden spaces.

SpeciesDahlia variabilisDahlia

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 pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
Tuck tubers 4-6 inches deep in early spring after the last frost.
Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the tubers.
Mist young plants regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
Provide support or staking as the plants grow tall and may topple.
Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist 💧
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming
Stake tall varieties to prevent them from toppling

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
Don’t forget to mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
Avoid harsh chemical fertilizers that can burn roots

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

Bright summer flower borderVivid container displayColorful cut flower bouquet

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias Cosmos SalviaSnapdragons

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Dark Dahlia questions

What zones can Dark Dahlia grow in?

Dark 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 Dark Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Dark Dahlia bloom?

Dark 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 Dark Dahlia need full sun?

Dark Dahlia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.