perennial

Tree Dahlia

Dahlia huntingtonii

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia huntingtonii is known for its striking orange flowers and lush foliage, making it a standout in garden beds.

This species of dahlia has a unique tolerance for different soil types and can thrive in varying conditions.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDahlias provide stunning, vibrant flowers that enhance garden aesthetics and attract pollinators.
Practical UsesThey can be cut for floral arrangements, adding beauty indoors.
Ecological BenefitsSupports bees and butterflies, promoting pollinator health.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

96 inches

Width

48 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable zones

Native To

Mexico

Toxicity

Toxic to pets

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring, 6 weeks before last frost.
  2. Plant at a depth of 4-6 inches, spacing 12-18 inches apart for airflow.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged during growing season.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer to promote vibrant blooms.
  5. Support tall varieties with stakes as they grow taller.
  6. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming.

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun and mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season
  • Stake tall plants to prevent wind damage
  • Remove dead or diseased foliage promptly

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in heavy, poorly-drained clay soil
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
  • Don’t prune during flowering to avoid cutting off bloom sites

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Lift Store
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Colorful border with vibrant bloomsTall accent in flower bedsContainer display for patios

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias SalviaCosmosBachelor's Button

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Tree Dahlia questions

What zones can Tree Dahlia grow in?

Tree Dahlia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Tree Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Tree Dahlia bloom?

Tree Dahlia typically blooms in late summer to fall through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Tree Dahlia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Tree 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.