Dahlias are herbaceous tuberous perennials plants that are native mainly in Mexico, but also in Central America, and Colombia where they grow wild on hillsides.

Dahlias provide great colour in the garden from summer through to autumn and come in a huge variety of colours and flower forms such as cactus, colarette, decorative and pompon. Sunlight is important for dahlia growth and for maximum flower production, so plant them in a sunny spot. Dahlias grow best in rich well-drained soil so work in some organic matter to your soil if need be.

Patio Dahlias are ideal for containers as they have been bred to remain compact and flower prolifically. Place them where they will receive full sun and keep well watered in summer. Dahlias make great cut flowers and dead heading will encourage them to re-bloom.