Also known as Common Dahlia · Cultivated Dahlia · Dahlia
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to pets. See toxicity details.
Dahlia pinnata is a tender perennial herb known for its vibrant, diverse flowers blooming from summer to frost. Native to Mexico, it is widely cultivated as an ornamental
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun (6-8 hours direct sunlight).
90% intensity
Consistent moisture, especially during dry periods.
70% intensity
Rich, well-draining loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0).
50% intensity
Warm temperatures, sensitive to frost.
80% intensity
Outdoor
50% intensity
Regular feeding during active growth with a low-nitrogen fertilizer.
60% intensity
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Dahlia plants contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation in pets if ingested or handled.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Dahlias require consistent watering, especially during dry periods and when actively growing and flowering. Aim for deep watering 2-3 times a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering as plants enter dormancy in autumn to prevent tuber rot. Good drainage is crucial to prevent fungal issues.
Dahlias are primarily propagated from tuber divisions in spring. Ensure each division has at least one "eye" or growth bud. They can also be grown from seeds, though seed-grown plants may not come true to type.
Cuttings can be taken from new shoots in spring.
For dahlias grown in pots, repotting is typically done annually in spring when dividing tubers or starting new plants. Choose a container that is adequately sized for the mature plant, ensuring it has good drainage.
Fresh, rich potting mix should be used each time to provide essential nutrients.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Garden Dahlia (Dahlia pinnata)
7 known issues from plant disease data
Cottony rot on Garden Dahlia causes watery stem or tuber decay covered with white cottony growth, leading to soft collapse and rot.
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dahlia |
| Species | Dahlia pinnata |
Similar in genus Dahlia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
