The Story
Plant Bio
Dahlia sublignosa is a rare, woody-based perennial dahlia species from Mexico, featuring single, vibrant red-orange flowers and pinnately compound leaves.
Notable for its shrubby, semi-woody habit, which is unusual for dahlias, and its simple, elegant single flowers.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
60 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Tubers are toxic to pets
Bloom period
Mid-summer – Late fall
In flower about 5 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Pinch back young plants for bushier growth.
- Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage.
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Pro Tip
Plant in full sun with well-draining soil for best flowering performance.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply weekly during dry periods 🌱
- Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during summer
- Stake tall plants to support heavy blooms
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not disturb tubers after planting
- Never allow soil to remain waterlogged
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| 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
Dahlia Sublignosa questions
What zones can Dahlia Sublignosa grow in?
Dahlia Sublignosa is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Dahlia Sublignosa deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Dahlia Sublignosa, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Dahlia Sublignosa bloom?
Dahlia Sublignosa typically blooms in mid-summer through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Dahlia Sublignosa need full sun?
Dahlia Sublignosa 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 Dahlia Sublignosa 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.