Cactus & Bedding Dahlias

Dahlia 'Bumble Rumble' brings collarette flowers in pink and white tones to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 50–70 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia 'Nuit d’Eté' brings spiky cactus blooms in deep red-purple tones to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 80–90 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia 'David Howard' is a summer-flowering dahlia grown from a tuber, loved for burnt-orange blooms set against dramatic bronze-purple foliage. The fully double, show-stopping blooms sit above fresh foliage and bring instant impact to borders, cutting gardens and large pots.

Flowers appear from mid-summer until the first frosts, especially if you keep deadheading. Dahlias are excellent cut flowers—snip stems regularly to encourage new buds. Bronze-tinged leaves make the orange blooms stand out.

Plant in fertile, humus-rich soil in a sunny, sheltered position. Start tubers in pots under cover in March or April, then plant out after frost risk has passed, or plant directly outside in May. Set tubers about 10–15cm deep and space plants 45–60cm apart.

This variety typically reaches 0.5–1 m with a spread of around 0.1–0.5 m. Taller types benefit from staking in windy spots. Water during dry spells and feed with a high-potash fertiliser every couple of weeks once buds form.

In autumn, once frost blackens the foliage, cut stems back and lift tubers to store cool, dry and frost-free. In very mild areas you can mulch and leave them in the ground. Replant in spring for another season of colour.

Dahlia 'Waltzing Mathilda' brings warm orange blooms with a soft, sunset glow to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches around 70–75cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia ‘My Love’ is a classic semi-cactus variety that produces elegant, pure white blooms with a hint of lime green at the centre. Known for its vigour and reliability, it is one of the most popular white dahlias for both garden display and cut flower use.

Reaching a tall stature, this variety sends up long, strong stems topped with spiky, needle-like petals that give the flower a starburst effect. Its height makes it an excellent candidate for the back of the border, where it can rise above lower-growing perennials.

Plant in full sun to keep the white petals bright and crisp, in well-drained, fertile soil. Due to its height, it is essential to stake this variety early in the season to prevent wind damage.

Water deeply once a week during dry periods and feed with a liquid tomato fertiliser from July onwards. When the season ends, lift the tubers and store them in dry compost or sand to overwinter safely.

A brilliant choice for "Moon Gardens" or all-white schemes, ‘My Love’ reflects evening light beautifully and serves as a versatile, long-lasting cut flower that complements any arrangement.

Dahlia ‘Just Married’ is a romantic decorative variety renowned for its soft, dreamy blend of bright pink and creamy white. It is a favourite for wedding floristry and elegant garden designs, offering a delicate and sophisticated look that blends seamlessly with other pastel shades.

This variety produces an abundance of medium-sized flowers on long, straight stems, making it exceptional for cutting. The petals are slightly fimbriated (fringed) at the tips, adding a unique, ruffled texture to the blooms that softens their overall appearance.

Plant in full sun to partial shade, ensuring the soil is fertile and well-worked before planting. It thrives in a dedicated cutting garden or mixed border where it can be easily accessed for harvesting stems.

Keep the soil consistently moist during summer, as water stress can reduce flower quality. In late autumn, cut back the stems and lift the tubers to store in a cool, dry place until spring, ensuring they are kept frost-free.

A brilliant choice for bridal bouquets and romantic garden themes, ‘Just Married’ bridges the gap between white and pink planting schemes, providing reliable structure and charm from mid-summer to autumn.

Dahlia 'Bishop of Llandaff' is loved for the contrast of bright red flowers against very dark foliage. It’s a classic choice for cottage borders and cutting beds, and it flowers from summer into autumn. This variety also carries the RHS Award of Garden Merit.

For best results, start tubers in pots from March or April in a frost-free place, then plant out once the risk of frost has passed. Choose full sun and a warm, sheltered position, and mix in plenty of garden compost to improve structure and drainage.

Plant tubers about 10–15cm deep with the ‘eye’ facing upwards, spacing plants roughly 45–60cm apart. Keep the soil evenly moist as shoots develop. If you’re growing taller stems or larger flower heads, add a cane early so support is in place before flowering.

Water deeply in dry weather and feed every two to three weeks through summer with a high-potash fertiliser to encourage buds. Deadhead regularly and cut stems often—removing spent blooms helps direct energy into new flowers, giving you a longer, heavier display.

After the first frosts blacken the foliage, cut stems back and lift the tubers to store somewhere cool, dry and frost-free. In very mild areas you can mulch heavily, but lifting is safest. Replant next spring and you’ll usually see stronger plants each year.

Dahlia ‘Rainbow Silence’ is a delightful decorative variety that features a harmonious blend of soft peach, lilac, and yellow tones. The petals transition gently between these warm, sunset hues, creating a multifaceted bloom that looks different from every angle.

This variety forms a bushy, medium-height plant with strong stems that display the flowers well above the foliage. The blooms are fully double and rounded, offering a classic dahlia shape with a modern, pastel colour twist.

Plant in a sunny, sheltered position in moist, fertile soil. The complex colouring of the petals is best appreciated in a spot where the flowers can be viewed up close, such as near a path or patio.

Water regularly during the growing season and apply a balanced liquid feed every couple of weeks once the buds appear. Remove spent flowers to channel energy into new growth and lift the tubers for winter storage in colder regions.

A brilliant choice for pastel-themed gardens, ‘Rainbow Silence’ provides a soft, glowing presence in the border and makes a wonderful cut flower that bridges the gap between pink and yellow arrangements.

Dahlia ‘Platinum’ is an elegant decorative variety that graces the garden with pristine white blooms, often touched with a whisper of lilac or cream at the heart. Its sophisticated form and clean colour make it a versatile addition to any planting scheme, acting as a palate cleanser amongst brighter colours.

This variety grows into a sturdy bush with broad, lush leaves that provide a dark green backdrop for the luminous flowers. The blooms are waterlily-esque in shape, with broad, slightly cupped petals that create a serene and structured appearance.

Plant in a sunny, open spot in fertile, well-drained soil. It appreciates a position with good air circulation to keep the foliage healthy and free from mildew later in the season.

Water consistently, directing moisture to the base of the plant rather than the foliage. Lift the tubers after the first frost blackens the leaves, clean them off, and store them in a frost-free environment for replanting next spring.

A brilliant choice for sophisticated, neutral borders, ‘Platinum’ brings a sense of calm and purity to the garden, glowing softly in the twilight and mixing effortlessly with all other colours in the vase.

Dahlia 'Verrone’s Obsidian' is an orchid-form dahlia with starry, near-black blooms and a bright yellow centre. The open shape gives a modern look in the border and can be easier for pollinators to use than densely double dahlias—ideal for a dramatic cutting garden.

For best results, start tubers in pots from March or April in a frost-free place, then plant out once the risk of frost has passed. Choose full sun and a warm, sheltered position, and mix in plenty of garden compost to improve structure and drainage.

Plant tubers about 10–15cm deep with the ‘eye’ facing upwards, spacing plants roughly 45–60cm apart. Keep the soil evenly moist as shoots develop. If you’re growing taller stems or larger flower heads, add a cane early so support is in place before flowering.

Water deeply in dry weather and feed every two to three weeks through summer with a high-potash fertiliser to encourage buds. Deadhead regularly and cut stems often—removing spent blooms helps direct energy into new flowers, giving you a longer, heavier display.

After the first frosts blacken the foliage, cut stems back and lift the tubers to store somewhere cool, dry and frost-free. In very mild areas you can mulch heavily, but lifting is safest. Replant next spring and you’ll usually see stronger plants each year.

Dahlia 'Bright Eyes' brings single flowers with pink petals and a bright yellow eye to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches around 60–100cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia 'Blue Bayou' brings anemone-flowered blooms in purple-pink tones to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 1.2 m, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia ‘Black Jack’ is a dramatic cactus variety that commands attention with its spiky, dark maroon petals that appear almost black in certain lights. It adds instant depth and mystery to the garden, serving as a perfect counterpoint to brighter, lighter blooms in a mixed herbaceous border.

This variety forms a bushy, upright plant with dark, lush foliage that enhances the moody intensity of the flowers. The pointed, tubular petals radiate outward, giving the blooms a star-like quality that adds texture and architectural interest to planting schemes.

Plant in full sun to help the dark pigments develop fully, ensuring the soil is rich in organic matter and well-drained. Like all dahlias, it appreciates a feeding of high-potash fertiliser once blooming begins to sustain its performance.

Support with stakes as the plant grows, as the stems can become top-heavy with flowers. Remove spent blooms to keep the plant tidy and productive, and lift tubers in autumn to protect them from freezing temperatures.

A brilliant choice for contemporary and gothic-inspired gardens, ‘Black Jack’ looks stunning when planted alongside lime-green foliage or bright orange flowers, creating a bold, high-contrast display.

Dahlia 'Cactus Mixed' brings a mixed collection of spiky cactus dahlias for bold borders to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 90–120 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia 'Rancho' brings waterlily-style blooms in warm orange tones to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 90–100 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia 'Topmix Mixed' brings a compact mix of colours ideal for pots and bedding displays to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 30–40 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia ‘Seduction’ is an alluring decorative variety known for its elegant pink and purple picotee petals. Each bloom features a pale, milky-white base that is delicately edged with deep violet-pink, creating a defined and sophisticated outline.

The plant is robust and floriferous, producing a high volume of medium-sized flowers throughout the season. The distinct colouring of the petals gives the blooms a three-dimensional quality, making them pop against the dark green foliage.

Plant in full sun to partial shade, in soil that has been improved with compost. This variety is excellent for adding detail and intricacy to a border without overwhelming other plants with solid blocks of colour.

Keep the plant well-watered during dry spells and stake if necessary to support the weight of the flowers. Deadhead faithfully to ensure a display that lasts well into autumn, and protect the tubers from frost during winter.

A brilliant choice for romantic cottage gardens, ‘Seduction’ draws the eye with its intricate detailing and pairs beautifully with deep purple flowers like Salvia ‘Caradonna’ or dark-leaved Heucheras.

Dahlia ‘Fire and Ice’ is a show-stopping decorative variety featuring striking bi-colour blooms of bright red with clean white edges. Its crisp, defined markings make it an eye-catching addition to cottage gardens and cheerful summer displays where bold colour is required.

The plant grows into a neat, bushy mound with fresh green foliage that contrasts thoroughly with the vivid flowers. The blooms are medium-sized and fully double, with broad, flat petals that display the consistent red-and-white pattern perfectly on every flower.

Plant in a sunny, open position where it can receive plenty of light, in soil that remains moist but drains well. This variety is relatively robust but performs best when sheltered from heavy rains that might damage the pristine white tips of the petals.

Water regularly, especially during the bud-formation stage, and feed every two weeks during the flowering season. Deadhead spent flowers by cutting the stem back to a leaf node to promote fresh buds throughout the season.

A brilliant choice for cutting patches and front-of-border impact, ‘Fire and Ice’ attracts attention from a distance and pairs wonderfully with solid white or red companions to echo its dynamic colour scheme.

Dahlia 'Bishop of Auckland' brings velvety red blooms with a golden centre over dark foliage to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches around 90–100cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.

Dahlia ‘Playa Blanca’ is a striking white cactus variety that brings texture and brightness to the summer garden. Its name, meaning "White Beach," perfectly describes the clean, fresh look of its spiky, incurved petals that radiate from a tight centre.

The plant is a vigorous grower, producing straight stems that are ideal for cutting. The unique cactus form, with its rolled, quill-like petals, adds a modern, architectural element to floral arrangements and garden beds alike.

Plant in full sun to maintain the snowy whiteness of the blooms, in soil that is rich in organic matter. Good drainage is vital, as dahlia tubers can rot in cold, wet ground.

Support the plant with stakes or netting to keep the stems upright during heavy rains. Deadhead frequently to promote a long flowering window, and lift the tubers in autumn to store them safely away from frost.

A brilliant choice for contemporary garden designs, ‘Playa Blanca’ offers a crisp, sculptural look that contrasts beautifully with soft grasses and broad-leaved foliage plants.

Dahlia ‘Lake Michigan’ is a mesmerizing decorative variety that captures the imagination with its ombre violet-purple and white blooms. The flowers feature a stunning gradient effect, with darker purple centres fading to crisp white tips, resembling a watercolour painting.

The plant has a vigorous growth habit, producing plenty of foliage and strong stems that hold the flowers upright. The blooms are perfectly formed and symmetrical, making them highly photogenic and excellent for adding a touch of artistry to the garden.

Plant in a sunny location with protection from strong winds, in soil that has been enriched with compost or well-rotted manure. This variety loves heat and will reward you with more intense colouration in a warm, sheltered spot.

Provide support with canes or netting as the plant reaches its full height. Regular deadheading is essential to prevent the plant from setting seed and to ensure a succession of blooms right up until the first frost.

A brilliant choice for gardeners who love unique colour patterns, ‘Lake Michigan’ stands out in white gardens or cool-toned borders, pairing elegantly with silver foliage and purple salvias.

Dahlia ‘Park Princess’ is a charming semi-cactus bedding variety that packs a punch of bright pink colour into a compact, manageable size. Unlike its taller cousins, this variety is perfectly scaled for pots, window boxes, and the front of garden borders.

Forming a neat, low-growing mound of healthy green foliage, it produces a profusion of spiky, vibrant pink flowers that cover the plant throughout the summer. Its shorter stems mean it rarely requires staking, making it a low-maintenance option for busy gardeners.

Plant in full sun for the best flowering density, in high-quality potting compost if growing in containers. Ensure container-grown plants have excellent drainage to prevent the tubers from becoming waterlogged.

Water daily during hot spells if planted in pots, as containers dry out quickly. Deadhead faded blooms regularly to keep the plant looking tidy and to encourage new buds to form continuously until autumn.

A brilliant choice for patio gardening and small spaces, ‘Park Princess’ delivers the exotic look of a cactus dahlia without the need for large beds, pairing well with low-growing annuals like lobelia or alyssum.

Dahlia 'Honka Pink' brings starry orchid-style blooms in clear pink to summer borders and cutting gardens, with bold flowerheads held on sturdy stems. Whether planted in drifts or dotted through mixed beds, the blooms add instant impact and keep coming through the warm months.

Once established, this clump-forming dahlia typically reaches 60–70 cm, producing plenty of long stems for cutting. Regular picking and deadheading encourages a steady succession of flowers from midsummer into autumn.

Start tubers in a frost-free place in spring, or plant outside once the risk of frost has passed. Choose a sunny, sheltered spot in fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil, and enrich the planting area with compost for best results.

Water during dry spells, especially while buds form, and feed every two to three weeks through the flowering period. Taller plants benefit from discreet staking, and removing faded blooms keeps the plant productive and tidy.

Perfect for borders, patio pots and cutting gardens, dahlias are also pollinator-friendly in single-flowered forms. Lift and store the tubers after the first frosts in colder areas to enjoy an even better display the following year.