Dahlia Imperialis Alba

Description

Dahlia imperialis 'Alba', commonly known as the White Tree Dahlia, is a striking, herbaceous perennial native to Mexico and Central America. This towering plant features bamboo-like, hollow stems and large, pinnate leaves that create a lush, tropical appearance. In late autumn to early winter, it produces large, pendulous, white, daisy-like flowers with yellow centers, each up to 10 cm (4 inches) across, adding a dramatic flair to the garden. Due to its impressive height and late blooming period, it serves as a focal point in landscape designs. Thriving in full sun to partial shade and moist but well-drained, fertile soils, Dahlia imperialis 'Alba' prefers a sheltered position protected from strong winds to prevent stem breakage. In cooler climates, it benefits from mulching to protect the tuberous roots from frost. Regular watering during the growing season promotes vigorous growth, while staking may be necessary to support its substantial height. After flowering, cutting back the stems to ground level encourages healthy regrowth in the following season.

Sowing Advice

These seeds have already been thoroughly cleaned and should be sown into a well-drained, sandy compost at any time of the year, and covered thinly with sand or grit and kept moist. Keep at between 20-25 degrees C. Seeds sometimes germinate within 4 to 6 weeks although some may take very much longer so please be patient. Plant out in the open ground in a well-drained sheltered spot in warmer countries, or in a large container in a greenhouse or tall conservatory elsewhere.

Key Facts