perennial

Bishop of Leicester Dahlia

Dahlia x hybrida 'Bishop of Leicester'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia 'Bishop of Leicester' is a tuberous, tender perennial with a bushy, upright habit. It is noted for its deep bronze to purplish-black foliage which provides a stunning contrast to its flowers.

This cultivar features elegant, waterlily-style, single to semi-double flowers in shades of mauve-pink with darker centers. It is part of the popular 'Bishop' series, known for dark foliage and vibrant blooms.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesBright, eye-catching flowers add vibrant color to gardens and floral arrangements.
Practical UsesProvides cut flowers for indoors, attracts pollinators, and adds seasonal interest.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinator populations and enhances biodiversity.
SpeciesDahlia x hybridaGarden Dahlia

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

Tubers are toxic to pets if ingested

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late fall

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in spring after frost ends
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
  3. Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
  4. Pinch back early growth to encourage bushiness
  5. Stake tall varieties for support during summer storms
  6. Lift and store tubers in fall in colder zones

Pro Tip

Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for best flowering

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide consistent watering 🌱
  • Pinch to encourage bushier growth
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture

Don't

  • Overwater, avoid soggy soil ❌
  • Neglect staking tall varieties
  • Forget to fertilize during active growth

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 plantContainer centerpieceCut flower for bouquets

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias SalviaCelosiaPetunias

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Bishop of Leicester Dahlia questions

What zones can Bishop of Leicester Dahlia grow in?

Bishop of Leicester 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 Leicester Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Bishop of Leicester Dahlia bloom?

Bishop of Leicester Dahlia 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 Bishop of Leicester Dahlia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Bishop of Leicester 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.