Dahlia pinnata 'David Howard'
perennial RHS Award

David Howard Dahlia

Dahlia pinnata 'David Howard'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

Expertly Curated
Real-Time Pricing
Loved by Designers

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Perennial in zones 8-9, annual elsewhere

Native To

Mexico and Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

The 'David Howard' cultivar is known for its striking orange flowers and bushy growth habit. It reaches a height of around 3 feet and has a substantial spread. This cultivar features unique bi-color flowers that fade into lighter shades towards the edges, offering a vibrant contrast in the garden.

Bloom Period:

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

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDahlias provide striking, colorful blooms that enhance garden aesthetics and attract pollinators.
Practical UsesThey can be cut for floral arrangements, adding vibrant accents indoors.
Ecological BenefitsSupports pollinator populations, including bees and butterflies.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Select a sunny location with well-draining soil for planting.
  2. Tuck tubers 4-6 inches deep in early spring after the last frost.
  3. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season.
  5. Pinch out the tips to encourage bushier growth in early summer.
  6. Lift and store tubers in fall in colder zones to protect from frost.

Pro Tip

Use organic compost to enrich soil and promote vibrant blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently, especially during dry spells πŸ’§
  • Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms 🌸
  • Apply organic mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
  • Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage
  • Monitor for pests regularly

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering which can cause tuber rot ❌
  • Don’t neglect deadheading to prolong flowering
  • Never plant in poorly drained soil
  • Avoid excessive fertilization which can lead to weak stems

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

Vivid border plant with striking bloomsColorful container displayTall background plant in garden beds

Companion Plants

Marigolds Salvia Zinnia Cosmos Lobelia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

David Howard Dahlia questions

What zones can David Howard Dahlia grow in?

David Howard Dahlia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is David Howard Dahlia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse David Howard Dahlia, especially tender spring growth β€” plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does David Howard Dahlia bloom?

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

Does David Howard Dahlia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow David Howard 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.

Download Sow on the App StoreGet Sow on Google Play