Tree Dahlia
Imperialis
-
5-10cm -
Full Sun
5-10cm 
Full Sun🌸 Dahlia imperialis – Tree Dahlia
This one’s a real garden showpiece. Dahlia imperialis, or Tree Dahlia, is a big, bold beauty that shoots up like a rocket — easily hitting 3 to 5 metres if she’s happy. Think bamboo-like stems, lush green foliage, and come late autumn, soft pink flowers that hang like bells.
It’s the kind of plant that makes you stop and say “Crikey, what’s that?”
She’s a bit of a diva when it comes to wind and frost — best planted somewhere sheltered, with a bit of sun and space to stretch. Stake her early, or she’ll flop over like a drunk uncle at Christmas.
Dies back in winter but comes roaring back in spring from chunky underground tubers.
Perfect for the back of the border, along a fence, or anywhere you want a bit of height and wow-factor. Not your average dahlia — she’s got attitude, and we love her for it.
- The best time to plant Dahlias here in NZ is September or October, but can be planted anytime from mid August through to late December.
- Dahlias love sun ,so choose a nice sunny spot in your garden. Ideally a spot that gets at least 4 hours of full sun a day.
- Dahlias will grow in almost any soil, but prefer well drained loamy soil conditions.
- Prepare the ground a few weeks before planting by digging over the soil thoroughly and adding a little well rotted compost and an application of general fertiliser.
- Before planting the tubers, apply stakes (for larger varieties) staking after planting damages roots and tubers.
- Plant your Dahlia tubers about 5-10cm deep and about 50cm apart with the eye facing upwards. Water well and keep moist being careful not to over-water.
For a full overview of how to plant Dahlias visit our Gardeners Guide.
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