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:
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
In flower about 5 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in spring after frost ends
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season
- Pinch back early growth to encourage bushiness
- Stake tall varieties for support during summer storms
- 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
| 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
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.
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 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.

















