Dahlia imperialis

Dahlia imperialis Details

Dahlia imperialis, commonly known as Tree Dahlia, is an herbaceous perennial that can attain tree size with impressive flowers. Masses of showy, single, pale purple flowers with an orange-yellow centre are borne across the plant during summer. The green foliage is held on fleshy stems which initially grow vertical but then develop a gentle arch as flowering commences. It typically grows to 3 m tall and the same wide and can be trimmed as necessary. Best results with this plant are achieved when grown in full sun on a well-drained, sheltered site. It is tolerant of frost and cool climates which will cause the plant to die back but it will regrow again when conditions warm. Dahlia imperialis is commonly included in a mixed planting, used as a backdrop for smaller plants, or grown anywhere the impressive flowering can be appreciated.