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Bulb
Asteraceae
Cactus Dahlia Mix (Dahlia ‘Cactus Mix’)
Dahlia pinnata ‘Cactus Mix’
Cactus Mix Dahlia (Dahlia pinnata ‘Cactus Mix’) combines a stunning collection of colourful cactus dahlias with long, narrow petals. This vibrant mix brightens gardens from midsummer until the first frost.
- Quantity
- 4 tubers
- Exposure
- Full sun. Bright sunlight encourages abundant flowering, vibrant colours, and sturdy stems.
- Life cycle
- Perennial
- Hardiness
- Zone 10
Discover the plant
Common nameCactus Mix Dahlia
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusDahlia
TypeBulb
Botanical nameDahlia pinnata ‘Cactus Mix’
Reproducible seedsYes
Cactus Mix Dahlia (Dahlia pinnata ‘Cactus Mix’) brings together a vibrant selection of spectacular cactus dahlias featuring large, star-shaped blooms with long, narrow, slightly twisted petals. Shades of red, yellow, orange, pink, white, and occasional bicolours combine in a dazzling display that blooms continuously from July until the first frost. Dense, dark green foliage provides the perfect backdrop for the flowers' dramatic form and brilliant colours. Growing 90 to 120 cm (35 to 47 in) tall, these dahlias create a bold statement in summer landscapes. Not hardy in Canada, they are typically grown as annuals, although the tubers can be lifted and stored indoors over winter.
Plant the tubers in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has thoroughly warmed, approximately 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in) deep. Choose a location in full sun with rich, loose, humus-rich, well-drained soil, spacing plants 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart. Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist without allowing it to become waterlogged. Apply a fertilizer high in potassium every two to three weeks throughout the growing season to encourage abundant flowering. Remove spent blooms regularly to promote continuous bud production. In autumn, lift the tubers before hard frost and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location until spring.
Cactus Mix Dahlia (Dahlia pinnata ‘Cactus Mix’) is perfect for large garden beds, flowering borders, generous containers, and cut flower gardens. Its vibrant mix of colours creates a bold, energetic display, especially when paired with cosmos, salvias, Verbena bonariensis, and ornamental grasses. Strong stems and excellent vase life make these flowers ideal for spectacular summer bouquets. Fully open blooms also attract bees, butterflies, and many other pollinating insects. Petals from untreated plants may be used with care as an edible garnish for selected salads and desserts.
Sowing guide
It all startswith a seed.
Sowing depth
10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in)
Sowing period
Spring
Propagation
Divide the tubers in spring, ensuring each division has at least one viable growing eye. This preserves the characteristics of each variety within the mix.
Growing method
Plant the tubers in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has thoroughly warmed. Plant 10 to 12 cm (4 to 5 in) deep, spacing tubers 40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in) apart in rich, loose, well-drained soil. Choose a location in full sun for abundant flowering. Water regularly without waterlogging the soil and fertilize throughout the growing season. Remove spent blooms to encourage continuous bud production. Lift the tubers before the first hard frost and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location over winter.
Soil and care
The right care,at the right time.
Soil pH
Slightly acidic to neutral
Minimum temperature
5°C (41°F)
Care level
Intermediate
Watering
Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist without overwatering. Reduce watering before lifting the tubers in autumn.
Soil type
Rich, loose, humus-rich, well-drained soil that remains evenly moist without becoming waterlogged. Avoid heavy, poorly drained soils.
Fertilization
Apply a fertilizer high in potassium every two to three weeks during active growth. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages foliage rather than flowers.
Seasonal care
Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering. Water deeply during hot weather without overwatering. Fertilize every two to three weeks throughout the growing season. Lift the tubers before the first hard frost and store them in a cool, dry location over winter.
Container growing
A garden,within reach.
Recommended pot size
40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in)
Container gardening requires planning for the volume needed for the roots and the plant's final height. Choose a stable pot with drainage holes and a suitable potting mix. Leave enough space to respect recommended planting depth and spacing, rather than crowding plants to immediately fill the pot. Place the container in the indicated exposure and regularly check moisture levels, especially in hot or windy weather. A pot is more exposed to temperature fluctuations than planting in the ground. Therefore, plan for a wintering location from the outset that is compatible with the plant's needs and your region's climate. Plant in spring when all risk of frost has passed and the soil has warmed sufficiently. Choose a sunny spot, sheltered from strong winds, in fertile and well-drained soil. Arrange the tuberous roots with their crown and buds facing upwards, without breaking fragile attachments. Install a stake at planting time if support will be needed, to avoid damaging the roots later. Water sparingly at the start, then adjust watering to foliage growth. Consistently soggy soil around the tubers should be avoided, especially before the first shoots appear. Plan to bring the storage organs indoors to protect them from Quebec's winter frost.
Bloom and dimensions
Its place,in your garden.
Mature height
90 to 120 cm (35 to 47 in)
Width / spread
40 to 50 cm (16 to 20 in)
Flower color
Multicoloured
Foliage color
Dark green
Foliage type
Deciduous
Growth rate
Fast
Bloom period
Cactus-type flowers feature long, narrow petals in shades of red, yellow, orange, pink, white, and occasional bicolours. With regular deadheading, they bloom continuously until the first frost.
Harvest
July to October. Harvest flowers when fully open for the longest vase life.
Garden associations
In goodcompany.
Companion plants
Pairs beautifully with cosmos, Verbena bonariensis, salvias, and ornamental grasses to create bold, colourful garden displays.
Frequently asked questions
Your questions,answered.
When should Cactus Mix Dahlia tubers be planted?
Plant the tubers in spring after all danger of frost has passed and the soil has thoroughly warmed. Planting in cold soil slows growth. Choose a location in full sun.
Is Cactus Mix Dahlia a good cut flower?
Yes. Its distinctive blooms have excellent vase life, and the wide range of colours creates vibrant, eye-catching bouquets.
Should the tubers be lifted for winter in Canada?
Yes. The tubers are not hardy in most Canadian climates. Lift them after the first light frost and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free location until spring.
Why should spent flowers be removed?
Deadheading encourages the formation of new flower buds and extends blooming until the first frost.
Does Cactus Mix Dahlia attract pollinators?
Yes. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and many other pollinating insects throughout the growing season, especially when fully open.
Wildlife and pets
Life,around your plants.
Supporting wildlife
Bees, butterflies, and pollinators
For planting your bulbs
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