perennial

Seattle Dahlia

Dahlia x hybrida 'Seattle'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia x hybrida 'Seattle' is a herbaceous perennial known for its bushy habit, lush green foliage, and large, vibrant flowers that range from deep reds to purples, often with a symmetrical, daisy-like appearance.

This cultivar is celebrated for its striking, rich-colored blooms and its reliable performance in garden borders, offering long-lasting floral displays from mid to late summer.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesA stunning perennial with vibrant blooms that add striking color to gardens and containers.
Practical UsesProvides cut flowers for floral arrangements, lasting up to a week in a vase.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesDahlia x hybridaGarden Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

Cultivated hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets

Bloom period

Mid-summer – Late fall

J
F
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A
M
J
J
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In flower about 5 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers in well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season.
  4. Stake tall varieties to support heavy blooms.
  5. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms.
  6. Lift tubers in late fall after first frost for overwintering in colder zones.

Pro Tip

Plant in a sunny spot with rich, well-draining soil for best results.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water consistently during the growing season 🌱
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly
  • Stake tall stems for support

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
  • Refrain from disturbing tubers during the growing season

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

Bright floral borderContainer display with vibrant color

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias Salvia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Seattle Dahlia questions

What zones can Seattle Dahlia grow in?

Seattle 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 Seattle Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Seattle Dahlia bloom?

Seattle 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 Seattle Dahlia need full sun?

Seattle Dahlia does best in full sun (6+ hours).

Keep exploring

Grow Seattle 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.