perennial

Lady Darlene Dahlia

Dahlia pinnata 'Lady Darlene'

The Story

Plant Bio

Dahlia 'Lady Darlene' features large, striking red flowers with excellent form and is noted for its attractive foliage.

This cultivar is particularly known for its deep red color and impressive blooms that stand out in any garden setting.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDahlias add vibrant color and dramatic blooms to gardens and containers, creating eye-catching focal points.
Practical UsesTheir cut flowers last long in bouquets, enhancing floral arrangements.
Ecological BenefitsAttract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.
SpeciesDahlia pinnataPinnate Dahlia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

30 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Perennial in suitable climates

Native To

Central America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late summer – Early fall

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

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck tubers into well-draining soil in early spring after the last frost.
  2. Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  3. Mist cuttings or pinched stems to encourage bushy growth in early summer.
  4. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
  5. Stake tall varieties to support heavy blooms throughout summer.
  6. Divide tubers in early spring or fall to propagate new plants.

Pro Tip

Plant dahlias in full sun with rich, well-drained soil for best blooms.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water deeply once a week during dry spells 🌱
  • Pinch back early growth to promote bushier plants
  • Apply a balanced fertilizer monthly during active growth
  • Stake tall varieties to prevent wind damage
  • Remove spent blooms to encourage more flowers

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent tuber rot ❌
  • Don’t plant in poorly drained soil
  • Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
  • Don’t forget to mulch to conserve moisture
  • Avoid disturbing tubers during flowering

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Fertilize
Lift Store
Pinch
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vivid flower bed borderColorful container displayBright garden focal point

Companion Plants

Marigolds Zinnias SalviaCosmosBasil

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Lady Darlene Dahlia questions

What zones can Lady Darlene Dahlia grow in?

Lady Darlene Dahlia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Lady Darlene Dahlia deer resistant?

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

When does Lady Darlene Dahlia bloom?

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

Does Lady Darlene Dahlia need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Lady Darlene 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.