Dahlia (Dahlia cuspidata)
Care, watering, light and tips for Dahlia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Moderate care
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Dahlia
Dahlia cuspidata, commonly known as the Pinwheel Dahlia, is a tuberous perennial herb native to Mexico, valued for its unique flowers with curled or 'cuspidate' petals that give it a distinctive appearance. Its blooms, ranging in color from deep red to orange and yellow, are a vibrant spectacle in any garden, flower bed, or as a cut flower. It is ideal for adding an exotic and cheerful touch to sunny borders or large pots.
Native range
Mexico
Care tips
It requires full sun (at least 6 hours daily) for abundant flowering and well-drained, organically rich soil. Keep the substrate consistently moist during the growing and blooming season, but avoid waterlogging, which can rot the tubers. A common mistake is not providing adequate support for taller varieties, which can cause stems to break in the wind or from the weight of the flowers.
How to save a dying Dahlia
- Warning signs
- Yellow or brown leaves, soft stems, poor or no flowering. General wilting may occur.
- First aid
- Check drainage. If soil is waterlogged, remove plant, trim rotten roots, repot in dry, well-draining soil. If dry, water thoroughly.
- What kills it
- Overwatering rotting tubers, or lack of light. Also intense cold.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. A healthy tuber can regrow. Cut off damaged stems.