{"title":"Special Offers","description":"\u003cp\u003eThese plants are on sale because it's the end of their popular season, or we are discontinuing the range, never because there's anything wrong with them!\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"arbatax-dahlia-tubers","title":"Arbatax Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Arbatax\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (small)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e White petals edged with lilac-pink. The pink deepens as each flower ages\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 12cm (4 to 5in) across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to first frosts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Ideal size for mixed arrangements, long vase life\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eArbatax: The Cutting Garden Dahlia with a Watercolour Edge\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eArbatax is the dahlia you plant when you want something that blends rather than dominates. The flowers are white with a fine lilac-pink edging on each petal. Not painted on in broad strokes like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-twist-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait Twist\u003c\/a\u003e, but delicately lined, almost as if someone ran a watercolour brush along the margins. Named after a small harbour town on the eastern coast of Sardinia, which is a pleasingly obscure provenance for a Dutch-bred dahlia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs each bloom ages, the pink deepens and spreads inwards. So the overall effect across a plant shifts gently from almost-white newly opened flowers to warmer, pinker older ones. Subtle enough to sit in a pastel scheme without clashing with anything.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe blooms are small by decorative dahlia standards, 10 to 12cm across, which is exactly the size that works best in a mixed arrangement. Dinnerplate varieties can overwhelm a vase. Arbatax slots in alongside cosmos, zinnias, sweet peas and snapdragons without trying to take over. The plant is compact and bushy at 90cm, rarely needs more than a light support, and produces flowers freely from July right through to the frosts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to Plant with Arbatax\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a cottage-garden dahlia, or a dedicated cutting patch dahlia. Partner it with soft pinks and whites: cosmos 'Purity' or 'Candy Stripe', white or blush sweet peas, and pale zinnias all flower at the same time and cut to the same kind of loose, generous bouquet. For darker contrast, the paprika tones of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBrown Sugar\u003c\/a\u003e (a warm ball dahlia with petals darkening towards the centre) at the same height makes a rich companion. The deep plum globes of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e, a ball dahlia from the legendary Geerlings nursery in Holland, add both colour depth and a tight geometric shape against Arbatax's softer form.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and gardeners in Somerset on the end of the phone if anything isn't right. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Arbatax a good dahlia for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the best. The 10 to 12cm flower size is far easier to use in mixed arrangements than dinnerplate varieties, the stems are sturdy, and vase life is good. One important detail: dahlia buds don't continue opening after cutting, so always pick flowers that are already fully open. Cut early in the morning and condition the stems in hot water for an hour before arranging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill the colour change as the flowers age?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGently, yes. Newly opened flowers are mostly white with a fine lilac-pink edge. As each bloom ages over several days, the pink deepens and spreads inwards. You'll have a mix of almost-white and warmer-pink flowers on the plant at any one time, which gives a softer, more natural look than a fixed uniform colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Arbatax compare to the Cafe au Lait dahlias?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompletely different scale. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e family produces dinnerplate flowers up to 25cm across on plants well over a metre tall, needing serious staking. Arbatax is compact with 10 to 12cm blooms that blend into mixed plantings and arrangements. Drama and scale: Cafe au Lait. Versatile cutter that plays well with others: Arbatax.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Arbatax grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with small flowers, it's well suited to containers. Use a pot at least 30cm across and deep with rich compost, and feed with a liquid fertiliser every couple of weeks from June. The \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has more on this.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre dahlias fragrant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot really. You might catch a faint green, earthy note if you press your nose into the centre, but nothing you'd notice in the garden or in a vase. Dahlias earn their place through colour and form. If you want scent in the same border, grow them with late sweet peas, nicotiana or phlox. Planting and aftercare details are in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003egrowing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54861618250054,"sku":"DAHLARB-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/arbatax-dahlia-flowers-head.jpg?v=1755634206"},{"product_id":"petiolaris-climbing-hydrangea-plants","title":"Petiolaris Climbing Hydrangea Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003ePetiolaris Climbing Hydrangea Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHydrangea anomala petiolaris \u003c\/strong\u003eis an attractive, vigorous self-clinging climbing Hydrangea originating from woodland areas of Japan, China, Korea and the Himalayas. It tolerates many soils, even heavy clay, but needs good moisture retention and should be watered well in dry spells, particularly during establishment. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt takes a little while to establish, but once it has, it supports itself with aerial roots as it climbs walls, fences and even quite large trees. Once settled in, Hydrangea petiolaris produces masses of showy white corymbs (flat white plates of tiny white flowers) that last all summer and the foliage is fresh green with good autumn colour. As climbing plants go, It's also a very strong grower, and ideally should have plenty of space to expand, although it can be kept within bounds with a judicious hack-back in autumn. Left to its own devices, it can reach 30' to 50'. It should be dead-headed, and pruned if necessary, immediately after flowering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBrowse our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/climbing-plants\"\u003eclimbing plants\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHydrangea 'petiolaris'\u003c\/strong\u003e is the perfect climber for a north or north-east wall as it prefers a bit of morning sun followed by some shade, although it'll tolerate dense shade. It's strong and vigorous and needs a wall, tree trunk or solid structure for support. It's ideal for difficult shady areas where the prolific white blooms will provide highlights in the gloom. It's a magnificent climber covering large areas with good bright green foliage and abundant flowers. It'll grow in other sites but doesn't like full sun and windy dry spots. Altogether an easy plant to grow and very rewarding. The growth rate varies enormously depending on position and soil, but in general it'll grow quite slowly in the early years, and then become significantly more vigorous when it's well settled in. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge white blooms\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGood bright green foliage\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePartial to full shade - north and north-east walls\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVigorous and will grow to 30' - 50'\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMild fragrance\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlant Care\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHealthy and generally disease free but can suffer from chlorosis if starved of nutrients when the leaves will become very yellow. A general purpose fertiliser will solve the problem. Occasionally it can be susceptible to rust and mildew both problems that can be avoided if dead and dying leaves are removed from around the plant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hydrangea is an ancient plant and fossils of between 40 and 65 million years old have been discovered. Roots of hydrangea were used by Native American medicine men to cure lung infections and kidney stones. Many varieties of hydrangea have been cultivated in China and Japan for several thousand years. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn 1829, Philippe Franz von Siebold, a doctor and botanist, was expelled from Japan where he was working. He had collected maps of Japan, a forbidden act, and was accused of spying for the Russians. He was, politely, put under house arrest and charged with treason, before being expelled from the country, taking his maps and thousands of plant and animal specimens, including this Hydrangea. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54963583844678,"sku":"HYDRPET-3L","price":22.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ P9 (9cm Pot)","offer_id":54999143383366,"sku":"HYDRPET-P9","price":12.95,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/petiolaris-climbing-hydrangea-mature-plant-4.jpg?v=1755634652"},{"product_id":"common-jasmine-plants","title":"Common Jasmine Plants","description":"\u003ch2\u003eCommon Jasmine Plants\u003c\/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eJasminum officinale, common Jasmine, is a lovely vigorous deciduous climber with delicate pinnate dark green foliage and large clusters of pretty, heavily scented white flowers from summer to early autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIt prefers a well drained soil but isn't particular about pH and can cope with long dry spells. It's tender but, if planted in a sunny, sheltered spot, on a south or south-west facing wall, it'll survive quite cold winters. Spreading in all directions quite quickly, it'll need hard pruning to remove dead and overcrowded stems.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eBrowse our variety of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/jasmine-climbing-plants\"\u003ejasmine plants\u003c\/a\u003e or our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/climbing-plants\"\u003eclimbers\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cul\u003e \u003cli\u003eDeciduous arching stems\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eFast growth to 12m at maturity\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eHeavily scented white flowers in summer\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003eSlightly tender\u003c\/li\u003e \u003cli\u003ePretty, dark green pinnate leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e \u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e \u003cp\u003eJasmine is a really beautiful climber that is perfect for growing in a sheltered sunny site where the delicious sweetly perfumed flowers can be enjoyed all summer.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIt's vigorous and quickly grows to 12m and will cover a porch, an arch, a shed or a tree stump with lovely pinnate dark green leaves and large quantities of white flower clusters. It associates well with climbing roses, clematis and honeysuckle but is equally attractive as a specimen.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIt can survive quite long dry spells and needs well-drained soil so will do very well planted against a wall. If growing the climber in a small garden it's best to plant it in a large pot that will keep the growth within bounds.\u003c\/p\u003e \u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWild Jasmine doesn't hold a Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit herself, but three of her daughters do, and Jasmine has the same strong growing qualities, meaning that this is an easy and reliable plant for any gardener.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was mentioned in ancient Chinese texts, and first recorded in William Turner's The Name of Herbes in London in 1548, by which time it was grown \"communely in gardines bout London\".\u003cbr\u003e\nIt's commonly found in temperate regions of Europe, Asia and Africa.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIt's the national flower of Pakistan, and of great cultural significance in India, used in the celebration of marriages and during festivals. Jasmine vendors can be seen all over India outside of temples, in the streets and around business centres selling large bunches of the sweet smelling flowers.\u003cbr\u003e\nIt's used in the far East for making Jasmine Tea by processing the flowers with green or white tea for days until it takes on the delicious scent.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe flowers are also used for the production of aromatherapy oil, called the 'King of Oils' it has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Potted \/ 3 Litre","offer_id":54963583942982,"sku":"JASMOFF-3L","price":18.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Potted \/ P9 (9cm Pot - Caned)","offer_id":54999145447750,"sku":"JASMOFF-P9-Can","price":11.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Potted \/ P9 (9cm Pot)","offer_id":54999145480518,"sku":"JASMOFF-P9","price":9.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/jasmine-jasminum-officinale-flowers-2.jpg?v=1755634505"},{"product_id":"ambition-dahlia-tubers","title":"Ambition Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ambition\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-cactus (fimbriata: petals with forked, split tips)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Magenta-purple\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 15cm (6in) across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Strong upright stems, very good vase life\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRain resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Better than average. Cactus petals shed water more readily than flat decorative types\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAmbition: Spiky, Purple and Completely Unbothered by Rain\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've ever watched a decorative dahlia collapse into a soggy mess after a heavy shower, Ambition is the antidote. The semi-cactus petals are rolled and quilled rather than flat, so water runs off instead of pooling in the bloom and rotting it from the inside. In a wet British summer, that's not a minor detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe petal tips are forked, split like tiny deer antlers. It gives each flower a slightly shaggy, textured look that's far more interesting than the smooth perfection of a decorative type. The colour is a saturated magenta-purple that holds from first bud to last petal drop. No fading, no shifting. At 15cm across, the flowers are large enough to hold their own in a border but manageable in a vase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe stems are strong and upright, the plant produces masses of blooms from July right through to November, and the whole thing stays relatively compact at a metre tall. Plant in groups of three at 75cm spacing and you'll have a solid block of purple from midsummer to the frosts. It's a favourite of Sarah Raven, which tells you most of what you need to know about its reliability.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to Plant with Ambition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSaturated purple works best either with similar deep tones or against deliberate contrast. For a rich, moody border, try Ambition with the near-black blooms of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e and the deep red spikes of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e. For contrast, the warm blush tones of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/arbatax-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eArbatax\u003c\/a\u003e (white with pink edges) make the purple sing, or try the velvety maroon waterlily form of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sam-hopkins-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSam Hopkins\u003c\/a\u003e for a different flower shape in the same dark palette. The heritage apricot of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (another semi-cactus, introduced in 1911 and still going) provides a warm, unexpected companion. Ornamental grasses soften the effect: Stipa tenuissima or bronze Carex catch the light between the flower heads.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and real people on the phone in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ecactus dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's the difference between a semi-cactus and a decorative dahlia?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePetal shape. Decorative dahlias like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e have broad, flat petals that lie open. Semi-cactus types like Ambition have petals rolled or quilled for at least half their length, giving a spikier, more textured appearance. The practical difference is rain resistance: rolled petals shed water, flat petals hold it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat are fimbriata petals?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmbition is sometimes classified as a fimbriata dahlia because the tips of its petals are forked or split. Think tiny deer antlers. This gives the flowers a slightly shaggier, more informal texture compared to a smooth-petalled cactus dahlia. Same plant either way. Fimbriata is just a more specific description of the petal tip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat happens if I go on holiday and can't deadhead?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plant won't die, but it'll slow down. Once a dahlia sets seed, it puts less energy into new flowers. You'll come back to a few spent heads, possibly some developing seed pods, and fewer buds in the pipeline. Cut everything spent back hard when you return and give it a good feed. It'll pick up again within a couple of weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Ambition grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBorderline, at a metre tall with 15cm flowers. A large pot (at least 35cm across and deep) with rich compost, a cane and regular liquid feeding will work, but it'll always do better in the ground. For a purple dahlia that's truly happy in a container, something more compact would suit. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots and containers guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo dahlias have a scent?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBarely. Most dahlias have little to no fragrance. A faint earthy, green note if you bury your nose in them, but nothing you'd notice from a distance. They earn their place through colour and form. If you want scent in the same border, plant them with late-flowering sweet peas or nicotiana.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999102816582,"sku":"DAHLAMB-TUBER","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/ambition-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249838"},{"product_id":"bishop-of-leicester-dahlia-tubers","title":"Bishop of Leicester Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bishop of Leicester\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peony (semi-double, open centre)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pale pink stripes over white, with dark Bishop foliage\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 15cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Strong stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBishop of Leicester: The Palest of the Bishop Dahlias\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bishop series shares its famous dark foliage, but each variety carries a different flower colour. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e is scarlet, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eAuckland\u003c\/a\u003e is velvety crimson, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eYork\u003c\/a\u003e is golden yellow. Bishop of Leicester is the softest of the series: pale pink stripes over a white ground, delicate and pretty against those characteristic dark stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a peony type with an open centre that bees can reach, so it earns its place in pollinator gardens as well as ornamental borders. At 90cm tall and 90cm wide, it fills its space with a bushy, self-supporting habit. It rarely needs staking. The flowers are 10 to 15cm across and produced freely from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Alongside Bishop of Leicester\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe pale pink-and-white flowers look best alongside other Bishops for a family planting with dark foliage running throughout. Plant with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e (scarlet) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of York\u003c\/a\u003e (golden yellow) for a scheme that runs from pale pink through scarlet to gold, all on dark stems. For companions outside the Bishop family, the soft tones of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/arbatax-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eArbatax\u003c\/a\u003e (white with pink edges, 90cm) echo the delicate colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and gardeners in Somerset on the end of the phone. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of Leicester part of the same series as Bishop of Llandaff?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. All the Bishop dahlias share the dark foliage that \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e made famous in 1924. Leicester is a more modern addition with softer flower colours, but the same dark-stemmed, open-centred, pollinator-friendly form runs through the whole series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of Leicester good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The open, semi-double peony form gives pollinators easy access to the central disc. It's one of the best dahlia types for wildlife gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Bishop of Leicester grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery well. At 90cm with a bushy habit and small to mid-sized flowers, it's compact enough for a large container. Use a pot at least 30cm across, feed fortnightly from June. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Bishop of Leicester need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually not. The bushy habit and moderate flower size mean it supports itself. A light ring at planting time is sensible in exposed gardens. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999122968902,"sku":"DAHLBISOFLE-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bishop-of-leicester-dahlia-flowers-head.jpg?v=1755249842"},{"product_id":"bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-tubers","title":"Bishop of Auckland Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bishop of Auckland\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peony (semi-double, open centre)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvety crimson with yellow stamens at the centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark Bishop foliage\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 15cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Open centre, recommended by BBC Gardeners' World\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBishop of Auckland: Velvety Crimson Flowers on the Famous Dark Bishop Stems\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBishop of Auckland sits between the scarlet fire of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e and the cheerful gold of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of York\u003c\/a\u003e. The flowers are a deep, velvety crimson with bright yellow stamens glowing at the centre, carried on the characteristic dark stems that run through the whole Bishop series. BBC Gardeners' World has recommended it, which is about as mainstream as a dahlia endorsement gets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLike all the Bishops, it's a peony type with an open centre that bees can reach. The flowers are 10 to 15cm across, semi-double, with that slightly informal quality that makes peony dahlias look as if they belong in a cottage garden rather than on a show bench. At 90cm tall and 90cm wide, the plant is bushy and self-supporting. It rarely needs staking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt flowers from July through to November and produces plenty of blooms for cutting. The dark stems look particularly good in arrangements where they're left visible rather than stripped.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompanions for Bishop of Auckland\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe obvious planting is the Bishop series together: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e (scarlet), Bishop of Auckland (crimson), and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of York\u003c\/a\u003e (golden yellow), all at 90cm, dark foliage throughout, flower colour changing as you move along the border. For a scheme beyond the Bishop family, the burnt orange of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e (a seedling from Llandaff, same dark leaves) and the warm paprika of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBrown Sugar\u003c\/a\u003e (ball, 90cm) both work in the same warm register. Lilac asters provide a surprisingly good cool contrast against the dark tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and gardeners in Somerset on the end of the phone. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Bishop of Auckland differ from Bishop of Llandaff?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e has bright scarlet flowers and an AGM dating back to 1928. Auckland's flowers are deeper, a velvety crimson that's richer and darker. Same height, same dark foliage, same open pollinator-friendly form. Llandaff is bolder and brighter. Auckland is moodier and more velvety.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of Auckland good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The open, semi-double form gives pollinators clear access to the central disc. If you're creating a pollinator-friendly border, the Bishop series are some of the best dahlias you can plant. Combine with other open-centred varieties and late-flowering perennials for a bee garden that runs from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Bishop of Auckland grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with strong stems and mid-sized flowers, it's well suited to containers. Use a pot at least 30cm across and deep with rich compost, feed fortnightly from June. It rarely needs staking even in a pot. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e has more on growing dahlias in pots.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre all the Bishop dahlias the same?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame family, different flowers. They all share the dark foliage and open peony form, but the colours run from scarlet (Llandaff) through crimson (Auckland) to golden yellow (York). All are 90cm, all self-supporting, all good for pollinators. Plant three or four varieties together and the dark stems connect the scheme while the flower colours change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat aftercare does Bishop of Auckland need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDeadhead spent flowers regularly, feed fortnightly with a liquid fertiliser from June, and water in dry spells. After the first frosts, lift the tubers and store them frost-free over winter. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers seasonal care, and the \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/overwintering-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoverwintering guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains how to store tubers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999123001670,"sku":"DAHLBISOFAU-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755634234"},{"product_id":"bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers","title":"Bishop of Llandaff Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bishop of Llandaff\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peony (semi-double, open centre)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bright scarlet-red with dark bronze centres\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep plum to near-black, as ornamental as the flowers\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Long strong stems, excellent vase life\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Outstanding. Open centre gives bees and hoverflies easy access\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes (awarded 1928, one of the earliest dahlias to receive it)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bred by Fred Treseder, Cardiff, 1924. Selected by Bishop Joshua Pritchard Hughes of Llandaff\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBishop of Llandaff: The Dahlia That Made Dahlias Fashionable Again\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBefore the Bishop, dahlias were allotment flowers. Worthy, reliable, a bit old-fashioned. Then Christopher Lloyd started planting Bishop of Llandaff at Great Dixter in the 1990s, and suddenly dark foliage with scarlet flowers was turning up in Chelsea show gardens and Sunday supplement planting schemes. The dahlia revival started here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers are single to semi-double, bright scarlet with a dark central disc that bees find irresistible. But it's the foliage that changed everything: deeply cut leaves in dark plum, almost black, that would earn a place in any border even if the plant never flowered. Most dahlias have green leaves that fade into the background. The Bishop's leaves are the feature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm tall and 90cm across, it fills its space without being difficult. It rarely needs staking, which is unusual for a dahlia this size. The stems are strong and long, the flowers are excellent for cutting, and the plant produces them non-stop from July until the frosts. The AGM it received in 1928 has been confirmed at every review since. Nearly a century of proving itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Naming Story\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFred Treseder, a Cardiff nurseryman, bred it in 1924 and invited the Anglican Bishop of Llandaff, Joshua Pritchard Hughes, to select a seedling from his trial beds. The Bishop chose this one. Treseder named it 'Bishop Hughes', but the real Bishop objected to his name being used on a plant. It was changed to 'The Bishop', then changed again because naming rules forbade 'The'. They settled on 'Bishop of Llandaff'. Three names before they stuck. A whole series of Bishop dahlias has since followed, all sharing the dark foliage but with different flower colours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Bishop in the Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDark foliage with scarlet flowers works with hot schemes and surprisingly well with cool ones. Plant the Bishop with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e (its own seedling, burnt orange with the same dark leaves) for a family planting that tells a story. For more heat, add \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e (deep red semi-cactus spikes) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of York\u003c\/a\u003e (golden yellow, same dark foliage). For a surprising contrast, try lilac asters alongside. Bronze Carex and cannas with dark leaves extend the tropical-exotic feel. Because the flowers are open-centred, Bishop of Llandaff is one of the best dahlias for pollinator gardens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and real people on the phone in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of Llandaff good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the best dahlias you can grow for pollinators. The open, single-to-semi-double flower form means bees and hoverflies can reach the central disc easily, unlike fully double dahlias where the petals block access. If you want a dahlia border that feeds the bees as well as fills the vase, start with the Bishop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's the difference between Bishop of Llandaff and David Howard?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e is actually a seedling from Bishop of Llandaff, spotted by a teenager in Norfolk in the 1950s. Both share the dark foliage. The flowers are completely different: the Bishop's are single, open, scarlet, pollinator-friendly. David Howard's are fully double, rounded, burnt orange, better for cutting. Both hold the RHS AGM. Plant them together and you've got a parent-and-child border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eAre there other Bishop dahlias?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA whole series. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of York\u003c\/a\u003e is golden yellow, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Auckland\u003c\/a\u003e is velvety crimson. All share the characteristic dark foliage from the original. They look superb planted as a group, three or four varieties running together, dark leaves throughout and the flower colours changing as you move along the border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Bishop of Llandaff grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery well. At 90cm with small 7cm flowers, it's compact and doesn't become top-heavy. It's one of the dahlias that genuinely thrives in a container. Use a pot at least 30cm across and deep, feed fortnightly from June, and plant with a bronze grass like Carex comans for a stunning patio combination. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Bishop of Llandaff need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually not, unless you're in a windy spot. The stems are strong and the flowers are small and light. A light support ring at planting time is sensible insurance but most plants hold themselves up perfectly well. Full planting and seasonal care advice is in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999124115782,"sku":"DAHLBISOFLA-TUBER","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755634236"},{"product_id":"bishop-of-york-dahlia-tubers","title":"Bishop of York Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bishop of York\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peony (semi-double, open centre)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Golden yellow with a marmalade-orange centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark burgundy stems with mid-green leaves\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 15cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Strong stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePollinators:\u003c\/strong\u003e Good. Open centre with visible disc\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBishop of York: Golden Yellow with the Dark Bishop Foliage\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bishop series is famous for dark foliage and open, pollinator-friendly flowers. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e, the original from 1924, is scarlet. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Auckland\u003c\/a\u003e is velvety crimson. Bishop of York is the warm one: bright golden-yellow petals with a marmalade-orange centre, carried against dark burgundy stems.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt's a peony type, meaning the flowers are semi-double with an open centre that bees and hoverflies can reach. The 10 to 15cm blooms aren't as formal as a decorative or ball dahlia, and that's the charm. They look natural, slightly informal, more cottage garden than Chelsea show garden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm tall and 90cm wide, Bishop of York is bushy and generous with its space. It rarely needs staking, which is unusual for a dahlia this size. The stems are strong, the flowers aren't top-heavy, and the whole plant has a relaxed, self-supporting habit. It flowers from July to November without much fuss.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat Goes with Bishop of York\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlant the Bishop series together for a stunning dark-foliaged border with flowers running from scarlet through crimson to gold: \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e (scarlet), \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-auckland-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Auckland\u003c\/a\u003e (crimson), and Bishop of York (golden yellow). The dark stems connect them even though the flower colours differ. For a contrast in form, add the tight geometric spheres of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/ariston-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eAriston\u003c\/a\u003e (rusty red ball dahlia). Cannas with bronze foliage, Helenium and Rudbeckia are natural late-summer companions. Ornamental grasses in bronze or buff tones complete the warm, exotic feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of York part of the same series as Bishop of Llandaff?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The Bishop series all share the distinctive dark foliage that \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e made famous. Each variety has different flower colours but the same dark-stemmed, semi-double, open-centred form. Plant them together and the dark stems run through the border like a thread, connecting scarlet, crimson, and gold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bishop of York good for bees?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. The open, semi-double peony form means pollinators can reach the central disc easily. Fully double dahlias (decorative, ball, pompon) have petals covering the centre, blocking access. If you're planting for wildlife, the Bishop series and other open-centred types are the ones to choose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Bishop of York grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery well. At 90cm with a bushy habit and strong stems, it's compact enough for a large container. Plant with a bronze grass for a patio combination that echoes the dark stems. Use a pot at least 30cm across and deep, feed fortnightly from June. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Bishop of York need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUsually not. The stems are strong, the flowers aren't heavy, and the bushy habit supports itself. In an exposed, windy garden a light ring at planting time is sensible, but most plants manage without. Growing advice is in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Bishop of York compare to David Howard?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e is a seedling from Bishop of Llandaff with dark foliage and fully double, rounded burnt-orange flowers. Bishop of York has semi-double, open-centred golden-yellow flowers, better for pollinators but less structured for cutting. Both are 90cm, both easy to grow. Dark foliage with pollinator access: Bishop of York. Dark foliage with cutting-quality double blooms: David Howard.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999124181318,"sku":"DAHLBISOFYO-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bishop-of-york-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249873"},{"product_id":"boom-boom-white-dahlia-tubers","title":"Boom Boom White Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Boom Boom White\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ball dahlia\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft white with a hint of greenish-yellow at the centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10cm across (up to 15cm with disbudding)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 65cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Strong thick stems, outstanding vase life. A florist favourite for weddings\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBoom Boom White: The Cutting Garden Ball Dahlia That Florists Queue For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've ever had dahlias in a professional flower arrangement, chances are Boom Boom White was in there. It's one of the best cutting dahlias in the range, full stop. The white ball-shaped flowers are 10cm across (up to 15cm if you disbud), the stems are thick and strong, and vase life is a solid five days minimum. Florists use it for weddings because the clean white colour, perfect ball form and reliable stems are exactly what you need when fifty table arrangements have to be identical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the garden, the effect is quieter but no less useful. The tightly spiralled white globes are the linking element in any mixed dahlia planting. They provide a visual pause between louder colours and make everything around them look more considered. The plant is compact at 100cm, fresh green foliage, prolific from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDisbud for larger blooms or leave it to produce freely. Either way, you'll have white ball dahlias from midsummer to the frosts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBoom Boom White in the Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhite is the universal companion. Plant alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (near-black) for maximum contrast, or the warm terracotta of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBrown Sugar\u003c\/a\u003e for a ball-on-ball pairing in contrasting tones. In an all-white scheme, combine with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait Supreme\u003c\/a\u003e (white dinnerplate) and the white pompon \u003ca href=\"\/products\/small-world-pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSmall World\u003c\/a\u003e (AGM holder) for three white dahlias in three different forms. The soft pink of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wizard-of-oz-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWizard of Oz\u003c\/a\u003e (another compact ball) provides a gentle tonal shift.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and the team in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eball dahlias\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Boom Boom White good for weddings?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the best. The clean white colour, perfect ball form, strong stems and reliable vase life make it a florist staple for bouquets and table centres. Plant generously if you're growing for a wedding. The more you cut, the more it produces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I make the flowers bigger?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDisbud. When a stem produces a central bud with two side buds, pinch out the side buds. All the plant's energy goes into the remaining bloom, which can reach 15cm instead of 10cm. Combine with generous feeding for the biggest flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan Boom Boom White grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. At 100cm with moderate-sized flowers, it stays proportionate in a container of at least 30cm across. The clean white flowers look crisp against any pot colour. Feed fortnightly from June. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does it compare to Cafe au Lait Supreme as a white dahlia?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompletely different scale and form. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait Supreme\u003c\/a\u003e is a giant dinnerplate, 25cm across, needing serious staking. Boom Boom White is a compact ball, 10cm across, self-supporting, and much easier to grow and cut. Supreme is the drama queen. Boom Boom White is the workhorse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat's the best way to condition dahlia stems?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut fully open flowers early in the morning. Strip the lower leaves and stand the stems in hot (not boiling) water for an hour. The heat drives air out of the hollow stems, which helps them take up water. Then transfer to a clean vase, change the water every two days, and keep away from direct sun and ripening fruit. Full growing and aftercare advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999127327046,"sku":"DAHLBOOBOOWH-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/boom-boom-white-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249844"},{"product_id":"bora-bora-dahlia-tubers","title":"Bora Bora Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bora Bora\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-cactus\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Coral pink shading to yellow at the centre, sunburst effect\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15 to 20cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Strong upright stems, rain-resistant form\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBora Bora: Coral Pink Sunbursts That Shrug Off the Rain\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBora Bora is a semi-cactus dahlia with a sunburst colour scheme: coral pink outer petals that shade to warm yellow at the centre, creating a radiant glow. The semi-cactus form means the petals are rolled and pointed rather than flat, which gives each 15 to 20cm bloom a star-shaped quality and the practical advantage of shedding rainwater.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm with strong, upright stems and bushy dark green foliage, it's a solid mid-border plant. The rain resistance is a genuine selling point. Where large flat-petalled decorative dahlias collapse in a British downpour, Bora Bora's star-shaped flowers shed the water and keep going.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBora Bora in the Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe coral-to-yellow gradient works in tropical and warm schemes. Plant with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/bishop-of-llandaff-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBishop of Llandaff\u003c\/a\u003e (scarlet, dark foliage) and cannas for a hot, exotic border. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBrown Sugar\u003c\/a\u003e (paprika ball, 90cm) picks up the warm tones in a different form. For cutting, the long stems and rain-resistant flowers make Bora Bora a reliable choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ecactus dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bora Bora good in the rain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetter than most. The semi-cactus form means rolled, pointed petals that shed water rather than cupping it. The flowers aren't top-heavy either. In a wet British summer, that's a genuine advantage over dinnerplate types.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Bora Bora grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm it's borderline. A large pot (at least 35cm) with staking and regular feeding will work. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers what works in containers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Bora Bora good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. Strong stems, rain-resistant flowers, and the coral-to-yellow gradient looks striking in a vase. Cut only fully open blooms. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999127392582,"sku":"DAHLBORBOR-TUBER","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/bora-bora-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249844"},{"product_id":"break-out-dahlia-tubers","title":"Break Out Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Break Out\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (dinnerplate)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Light pink with a yellow centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 20cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 75cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Strong stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBreak Out: A Pink Dinnerplate Dahlia with a Sunny Centre\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eBreak Out is a large decorative dahlia with light pink petals surrounding a warm yellow centre. At 20cm across, the flowers are firmly in dinnerplate territory, and the soft colour combination gives them a fresh, approachable look that works in both pastel and warm planting schemes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm with a 75cm spread, it's a substantial plant that needs staking and a position towards the back of a sunny border. The stems are strong and the flowers are produced freely from July to the frosts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompanions for Break Out\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe pink-and-yellow colour works alongside soft pastel schemes. Plant with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gerrie-hoek-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGerrie Hoek\u003c\/a\u003e (shell pink waterlily, 120cm) for a pink scheme in two different flower forms. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-swan-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWhite Swan\u003c\/a\u003e (white decorative, same height) keeps things cool alongside. For contrast, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (near-black, 90cm in front) anchors the scheme with depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and gardeners in Somerset on the phone. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Break Out grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm with 20cm flowers, it's too big for a container. Grow it in deep border soil with proper staking. For a pink dahlia that suits pots, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/daisy-duke-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDaisy Duke\u003c\/a\u003e (coral-pink, 90cm) is a better choice. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Break Out need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. At 120cm with dinnerplate flowers, it needs sturdy support from planting time. Full growing and aftercare advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Break Out good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery. The 20cm flowers make a statement in a vase, and the light pink is versatile in arrangements. Cut only fully open blooms. The large heads drink a lot of water, so keep the vase topped up.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999128768838,"sku":"DAHLBREOUT-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/break-out-dahlia-flower.jpg?v=1755249844"},{"product_id":"brown-sugar-dahlia-tubers","title":"Brown Sugar Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Brown Sugar\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ball dahlia\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Terracotta, paprika, apricot and copper, all in one bloom. Deepens towards the centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 12cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Long, straight stems. Excellent for autumn arrangements\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Raised by Roger Adams Jr., Pleasant Valley Glads and Dahlias, Connecticut, 2003\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eBrown Sugar: A Ball Dahlia in a Colour You Can't Quite Pin Down\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTry to describe the colour of Brown Sugar and you'll end up listing four or five words. Terracotta. Paprika. Apricot. Copper. A hint of burnt sienna. All of them are present in a single bloom, layered from a deeper, richer centre to paler outer petals. It's the colour of autumn condensed into a flower, and it's one of those dahlias that's easier to photograph than to describe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRaised in 2003 by Roger Adams Jr. at Pleasant Valley Glads and Dahlias in Connecticut, Brown Sugar is a ball dahlia, which means each petal curls inward to build a tight, spiralling globe. The flowers are 10 to 12cm across, a good practical size for bouquets and arrangements. The stems are long and straight, naturally upright, and the plant produces them freely from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with a 60cm spread, it's manageable in a border and possible in a large pot. The warm tones deepen as the season progresses into autumn, so it gets better as the light gets lower. Space plants about 75cm apart for the best effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Partners for Brown Sugar\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWarm tones against warm tones, with something darker to anchor the scheme. Plant Brown Sugar alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/daisy-duke-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDaisy Duke\u003c\/a\u003e (coral-pink decorative, same height, different form) and the heritage apricot of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (semi-cactus spikes, 120cm behind). For depth, add the deep maroon of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e (ball, 120cm) or the near-black of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e. Buff grasses like Stipa gigantea and red hot pokers (Kniphofia) extend the border into a full late-summer warm scheme.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and real people on the phone in Somerset. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eball dahlias\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat colour is Brown Sugar, exactly?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat's the question. The petals blend terracotta, paprika, apricot and copper in a single bloom, deepening from the outer edges towards a richer centre. Cooler autumn nights intensify the tones. If you've seen it described as \"warm orange\" or \"burnt umber\" elsewhere, they're not wrong either. The shifting, layered quality is the whole point.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Brown Sugar good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcellent. The long, straight stems make it one of the easiest ball dahlias to arrange. The 10 to 12cm flowers are the ideal scale for bouquets, and the warm colour mixes beautifully with deeper dahlias like \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e. Cut only fully open blooms, early in the morning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Brown Sugar grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with mid-sized flowers, it'll work in a container of at least 30cm across and deep. Feed fortnightly and water regularly. The warm tones look particularly good in a terracotta pot. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e has more detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does a ball dahlia differ from a pompon?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSize. Both have the same tightly spiralled, globe-shaped form. Pompon dahlias are under 5cm across, ball dahlias are 5 to 15cm. Brown Sugar at 10 to 12cm is firmly in ball territory. The tight structure makes both types more rain-tolerant than flat-petalled decorative dahlias. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/types-of-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etypes of dahlias guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains the classifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do I store Brown Sugar tubers over winter?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the first frosts blacken the foliage, cut stems to 15cm, lift the tubers, brush off loose soil and dry for a day or two. Store somewhere cool, dark and frost-free. Check monthly for rot. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/overwintering-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoverwintering dahlias guide\u003c\/a\u003e walks through the process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999129489734,"sku":"DAHLBROSUG-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249844"},{"product_id":"cafe-au-lait-dahlia-tubers","title":"Cafe au Lait Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cafe au Lait\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (giant\/dinnerplate)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Opens pale pink, shifts through peach, buff and warm cream. Ends up the colour of milky coffee\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 25cm (10in) across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100 to 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 70cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to first frosts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Strong stems, superb for arrangements and wedding work\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Bred by D. Bruidegom, Baarn, Holland, introduced 1968\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCafe au Lait: Probably the Most Famous Dahlia in the World\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf ever a flower was perfectly named, Cafe au Lait is it. The blooms open pale pink and drift, over the course of days, through peach, buff, warm cream and a dozen shades in between, ending up the colour of a really good milky coffee. No two flowers are at quite the same stage at the same time, so the effect across a clump is a rolling wash of muted, warm tones rather than a single fixed colour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt pairs with everything without fading into the background, which is exactly why florists, brides and garden designers have been fighting over it since Bruidegom introduced it in the Netherlands in 1968. The flowers are enormous: fully double dinnerplate heads up to 25cm across, with broad, slightly ruffled petals arranged informally. They're carried on strong stems that hold the blooms upright for cutting, and the plant flowers continuously from midsummer until the frosts stop it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt became a worldwide sell-out after featuring in Martha Stewart Weddings, and it still sells out most springs. If you want it, order early.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Cafe au Lait Family\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSince 1998, three sports have been added to the original. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e is the pure white version, same flower form, clean buttercream, no pink tones at all. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-royal-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRoyal\u003c\/a\u003e starts pinker and stays pinker, with more obvious streaking and a stronger presence. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-twist-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eTwist\u003c\/a\u003e has raspberry ripples over a cream base. All four are the same height and flower at the same time, so they work beautifully planted together. Or buy the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-cafe-au-lait-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait mixed collection\u003c\/a\u003e for the best price on a combination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Partners for Cafe au Lait\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe muted, shifting tones suit tonal schemes. Plant all four Cafe au Lait varieties together for a gradient from white through coffee to dusky pink. For contrast, the deep plum globes of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e (ball dahlia, bred by the great Cor Geerlings of Heemstede) in front bring both colour depth and a tight, geometric shape against the ruffled dinnerplates. The burnt orange and dark foliage of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e make it a natural companion at the same height. Anemanthele lessoniana picks up the warm tones perfectly, and Japanese anemones extend the season alongside.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich Cafe au Lait should I buy?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThat depends on what you want from the colour. The original (this one) gives you the widest range of shifting tones, from pink through peach and buff into coffee, and no two flowers match. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e is a clean buttercream white, the one florists reach for when they need a reliable neutral. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-royal-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRoyal\u003c\/a\u003e is the most intensely pink. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-twist-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eTwist\u003c\/a\u003e is cream with raspberry markings. If you can't decide, the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-cafe-au-lait-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003emixed collection\u003c\/a\u003e gives you three varieties for the best price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cafe au Lait a good dahlia for weddings?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's the dahlia for weddings, the one that started the whole trend. The shifting warm tones work in almost any colour scheme, the flowers are large enough to be a focal bloom, and the stems cut well. Plant plenty and cut generously. The more you take, the more it produces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill the colour be predictable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot really, and that's the appeal. Blooms on the same plant will be at different colour stages at any one time, and temperature affects the range: cooler autumn nights bring softer, more muted tones. If you need a fixed colour, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e (white) or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-royal-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRoyal\u003c\/a\u003e (pink) are more consistent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow Cafe au Lait in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot successfully. At 120cm tall with 25cm flowers that hold rainwater, it's too big, too hungry and too top-heavy for a container. It needs deep, rich border soil and serious staking. If you want a dahlia for pots in similar soft tones, try \u003ca href=\"\/products\/arbatax-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eArbatax\u003c\/a\u003e (white with pink edges, 90cm) or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/karma-prospero-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eKarma Prospero\u003c\/a\u003e (lilac-pink waterlily, 90cm). Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the alternatives.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do I make Cafe au Lait last longer in a vase?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCut in the morning when stems are full of water, choosing only fully open flowers. Dahlia buds won't open in the vase. Stand the stems in hot water for an hour to condition them, then transfer to a clean vase. Change the water every two days. The huge flower heads drink a lot, so keep the vase topped up. Expect five to six days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999131390278,"sku":"DAHLCAFAULA-TUBER","price":2.62,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cafe-au-lait-dahlia-flower-head.jpg?v=1755634273"},{"product_id":"cafe-au-lait-royal-dahlia-tubers","title":"Cafe au Lait Royal Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cafe au Lait Royal\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (giant\/dinnerplate)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dusky pink opening to strawberry-milkshake, fading through cappuccino and blush. Variable and streaked\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 25cm (10in) across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90 to 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 70cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to first frosts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Strong stems, superb vase life\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sport of the original Cafe au Lait (Bruidegom, 1968)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCafe au Lait Royal: The Pink One, and No Two Flowers Are Quite the Same\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRoyal is the Cafe au Lait family member that people either adore or find slightly exasperating, depending on whether they want predictability from their dahlias. The blooms open a warm, saturated pink, closer to strawberry milkshake than pastel, then shift through dusky rose, faded cappuccino and streaky blush as they age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIndividual flowers on the same plant will be at different stages simultaneously, so the overall effect is a rolling palette of muted pinks and coffees rather than a single, fixed colour. If you've seen it on Pinterest tagged as \"dusty rose dahlia\" or \"muted wedding dahlia,\" this is probably the one.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe flower form is the same as the rest of the Cafe au Lait series: enormous fully double dinnerplate heads, up to 25cm across, with broad ruffled petals arranged informally. Stems are strong enough for cutting without the heads nodding, and vase life is good, typically five to six days. It flowers from midsummer right through to the first frosts, and like all dahlias, the more you cut, the more it produces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to Plant Alongside Royal\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRoyal looks its best in tonal schemes. Plant with the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoriginal Cafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e for a gradient running from pure white through milky coffee into dusky pink, all the same height, all flowering at the same time. For a richer contrast, try it alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/david-howard-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDavid Howard\u003c\/a\u003e (burnt orange, dark bronze foliage) or the deep red of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/baccara-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBaccara\u003c\/a\u003e. At the front of the border, the warm peach-and-purple globes of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wine-eyed-jill-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWine Eyed Jill\u003c\/a\u003e (a compact ball dahlia, 90cm) pick up the warm tones in a completely different form. Anemanthele lessoniana or soft Pennisetum catch evening light beautifully against faded pink flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers and clumps lacking enough growing points. Delivered by next-day courier from March onwards, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset if anything isn't right. Want all the Cafes in one go? Try the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-cafe-au-lait-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait mixed collection\u003c\/a\u003e, or browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Royal differ from the original Cafe au Lait?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColour intensity. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoriginal\u003c\/a\u003e opens pale pink and fades through peach, buff and milky coffee, a gentle, warm-neutral palette. Royal starts pinker and stays pinker, with more obvious streaking. Flower form and size are the same. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e is the pure white variant, and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-twist-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eTwist\u003c\/a\u003e has raspberry streaks over cream.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill the colour be consistent?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot at all, and that's part of the appeal. Blooms on the same plant will be at different colour stages at any one time, from fresh saturated pink to faded blush. Temperature affects it too: cooler autumn nights produce softer, more muted tones. If you need a reliable fixed pink, Royal isn't the right choice. If you want a shifting, romantic display, it's perfect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cafe au Lait Royal good for weddings?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the most popular with florists. The shifting pink tones suit dusky, romantic colour schemes especially well, and the stems are strong enough for bouquets and table arrangements. Plant generously. The more you cut, the more it flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow Cafe au Lait Royal in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNot well enough to be worth it. At 120cm tall with 25cm flowers that hold rainwater, Royal needs deep border soil, heavy staking and room to spread. In a pot it'll be permanently hungry, top-heavy and disappointing. For a pink dahlia that works well in a container, try \u003ca href=\"\/products\/caitlins-joy-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCaitlin's Joy\u003c\/a\u003e (bright pink ball, compact and weather-proof) or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/karma-prospero-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eKarma Prospero\u003c\/a\u003e (lilac-pink waterlily, 90cm, bred for cutting). Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers what works and what doesn't.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat happens if I don't deadhead regularly?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlowering slows down. Once a dahlia starts setting seed it redirects energy away from new buds. With Royal, the spent flower heads are large and visible, so they're easy to spot and snip. If life gets in the way for a week or two, just cut everything spent back hard when you get round to it, give the plant a liquid feed, and it'll pick up. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers deadheading and seasonal care in detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999131586886,"sku":"DAHLCAFAULARO-TUBER","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cafe-au-lait-royal-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249846"},{"product_id":"cafe-au-lait-twist-dahlia-tubers","title":"Cafe au Lait Twist Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cafe au Lait Twist\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (giant\/dinnerplate)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Creamy white with raspberry-pink streaks and splashes. Variable between blooms\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 25cm (10in) across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 70cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to first frosts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Strong stems, held upright\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sport of the original Cafe au Lait (Bruidegom, 1968), introduced post-1998\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCafe au Lait Twist: Raspberry Ripple on a Dinnerplate\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhere the other Cafe au Lait varieties deal in subtle shifts of tone, Twist announces itself. The base colour is creamy white, but every bloom carries bold raspberry-pink streaks and splashes. Some petals are barely marked, others heavily flushed, so each flower looks hand-painted, and no two are identical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOn a good plant in full flower, you'll have blooms ranging from almost white with a single pink brushstroke to heavily striped heads that are more raspberry than cream. The pattern is unpredictable. That's the whole point. The flower form is pure Cafe au Lait: enormous fully double dinnerplate heads up to 25cm across, with the same broad, informally ruffled petals as the rest of the family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eStems are strong enough for cutting, and the plant flowers from midsummer through to the frosts. At 120cm it's the tallest of the Cafe au Lait group and will definitely need staking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Alongside Twist\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTwist works well planted among its siblings. Put it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e (pure white) and the \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoriginal Cafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e (milky coffee tones) for a mixed planting where the raspberry streaks add punctuation without clashing. The combination with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e in front (soft apricot semi-cactus at a shorter height, introduced in 1911 and still one of the best cutters in the business) gives you a warm-toned border with real textural depth. For something cooler, try pairing Twist with purple or mauve late-summer perennials: Salvia 'Amistad', or dusky Pennisetum grasses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe import first-class dahlia tubers directly and hand-grade them here. We look for and reject undersized tubers and clumps lacking enough growing points. Your dahlias will be delivered from March by next-day courier, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Want several Cafe au Lait varieties together? The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/mixed-cafe-au-lait-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait mixed collection\u003c\/a\u003e is the best-value way to buy them, or browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Twist differ from the other Cafe au Lait varieties?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMarkings. The \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eoriginal\u003c\/a\u003e shifts gradually through pink, peach, buff and cream, soft and tonal. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/supreme-cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSupreme\u003c\/a\u003e is a clean buttercream white with no variation. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-royal-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRoyal\u003c\/a\u003e is the deepest pink with streaking but a consistently strong base colour. Twist is the boldest contrast: white petals with obvious raspberry stripes. If the others are watercolour, Twist is brushwork.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill every flower have the stripes?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost all will show some raspberry marking, but the intensity varies enormously from bloom to bloom. Some flowers will be lightly splashed, others heavily striped. Temperature, maturity and position on the plant all play a part. This unpredictability is characteristic of striped dahlia sports. For formal arrangements requiring identical flowers, Twist may frustrate you. For mixed garden displays and loose bouquets, the variation is an asset.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow Cafe au Lait Twist in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm, Twist is the tallest of the Cafe au Lait family, and 25cm flowers on a tall stem will catch every gust. In a container it'll be permanently top-heavy, thirsty and undernourished. Grow it in deep border soil with proper staking. If you want a striped or bicoloured dahlia for a pot, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/checkers-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCheckers\u003c\/a\u003e (red and white miniature decorative) or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wine-eyed-jill-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWine Eyed Jill\u003c\/a\u003e (peach and purple ball, 90cm) are better options. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the full picture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cafe au Lait Twist good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery. The stems are strong and hold the flowers upright, and the striped pattern makes each stem a talking point. Cut generously. The more you take, the more the plant produces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow do I make cut dahlias last longer in water?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe single most important thing: never cut buds, because they won't open once they leave the plant. You need flowers that are already fully open. After that, condition the stems by standing them in hot water for an hour, use a clean vase, change the water every couple of days, and keep the arrangement away from direct sun and fruit bowls (ethylene from ripening fruit ages the petals). Treated well, Twist should give you five to six days. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers planting, feeding and overwintering.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999131816262,"sku":"DAHLCAFAULATW-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cafe-au-lait-twist-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249871"},{"product_id":"cafe-de-paris-dahlia-tubers","title":"Café de Paris Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cafe de Paris\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cactus\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Creamy white with soft peach tones\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Strong stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCafe de Paris: A Cactus Dahlia in Coffee-House Colours\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCafe de Paris extends the Cafe au Lait family name into cactus dahlia territory. The flowers are a creamy white with soft peach tones, carried on long, narrow, pointed petals that give each 15cm bloom the spiky, architectural look that distinguishes cactus types from the rounder decorative forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm with a narrow 50cm spread, it's an upright, manageable plant. The cactus form means the petals shed rain rather than cupping it, so it handles wet weather better than the flat-petalled Cafe au Lait dinnerplates. It flowers from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlacing Cafe de Paris\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe creamy-peach tones work alongside the Cafe au Lait family. Plant with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e (milky coffee dinnerplate) for a tonal scheme in two different forms: spiky cactus against ruffled dinnerplate. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (apricot semi-cactus, 120cm) is a natural companion in the same spiky family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ecactus dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cafe de Paris related to Cafe au Lait?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey share the name but not the flower form. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e is a ruffled dinnerplate decorative. Cafe de Paris is a spiky cactus. The colour palette is similar: soft, warm, coffee-house neutrals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Cafe de Paris grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm with a narrow spread, it's manageable in a large pot. Cactus types handle wind slightly better than flat decorative dahlias. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Cafe de Paris good in the rain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBetter than decorative types. The rolled cactus petals shed water instead of holding it. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999131849030,"sku":"DAHLCAFPAR-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/cafe-de-paris-dahlia-flower-head.jpg?v=1755249846"},{"product_id":"chat-noir-dahlia-tubers","title":"Chat Noir Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003ch2\u003eChat Noir Dahlia Tubers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChat Noir is a sumptuous cactus dahlia. It's hugely popular for its ruby-red flowers, which are up to 15cm across, almost black at the centre, and silky soft. The spiky petals are pointed, long and narrow, with a slight, undulating upturn toward the tips. The stiff, robust, 1.1m stems are a complementary deep chocolate brown. It makes a wonderful cut flower, lasting well in a vase, and it holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003eBrowse our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\"\u003ecactus dahlia range\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGarden Design Ideas\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeing a tall and stately dahlia, Chat Noir is best grown towards the back of a border, where it'll bring drama and exotic good looks. Combine it with other late-summer stars. It works best in generous groups. Be daring and combine it with other bold colours for a stunning display: think vibrant pinks, copper-oranges, and bright tangerine varieties. It looks sublime with cottage-garden favourites such as Foeniculum vulgare 'Giant Bronze', ruby red sedums, or a veil of ornamental grasses to soften its architectural good looks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlways grow in full sun, in a big pot, if necessary, with well-drained soil. Stake well in early summer to stop those big exotic flowers flopping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColour: deep wine red, near black at the centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlower size: 12-15cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eType: cactus dahlia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCutting: yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight\/spread: 1.1m x 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlowering: July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlanting months: late February to July\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRHS Award of Garden Merit\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistory \u0026amp; Trivia\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo tell a spent dahlia flower from a bud, remember that a spent flower is always conical, whereas an unopened bud is rounded.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999139909958,"sku":"DAHLCHATNOI-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/chat-noir-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249847"},{"product_id":"checkers-dahlia-tubers","title":"Checkers Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Checkers\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (miniature)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep burgundy-red with pure white petal tips. One of the most reliable bicolours\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e Up to 10cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to first frosts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Superb. Compact bicolour blooms that florists reach for\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCheckers: The Bicolour Dahlia That Cut Flower Growers Swear By\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCheckers is the kind of dahlia that catches your eye from across the garden and makes you walk over to look properly. The deep burgundy-red petals are tipped with pure white, sharp and clean, giving each flower a chequered effect that is consistent enough to rely on but variable enough to keep things interesting. Some blooms are more heavily white-tipped than others. A few will be almost entirely dark. But the overall effect across a plant in full flower is unmistakeable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCut flower grower Georgie Newberry counts Checkers among her favourites, and you can see why. At 10cm across with compact, neatly formed decorative blooms on a narrow, upright plant, it's built for cutting. The stems are strong, the flowers are the right scale for bouquets, and the bicolour pattern makes every stem a talking point. A handful of Checkers in a jam jar on the kitchen table is one of the simplest, best-looking autumn arrangements you can make.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm tall and just 45cm across, Checkers takes up very little border space. It works in a large pot, slots into the middle of a mixed border, and the compact habit means it rarely needs heavy staking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat to Plant with Checkers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe bicolour pattern gives you flexibility. Plant Checkers alongside the pure white ball \u003ca href=\"\/products\/boom-boom-white-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBoom Boom White\u003c\/a\u003e to pick up the white tips, and the deep maroon \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e to echo the burgundy. For something warmer, the soft apricot of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (semi-cactus) bridges between the dark and light tones. Pink Cosmos 'Candy Stripe' at the feet and white Cosmos 'Purity' behind create a cottage-garden effect. If you're growing an exotic border, try it backed by cannas or the bold leaves of Ricinus.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and the team in Somerset. Browse our full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill every flower have the white tips?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost will, but the intensity varies. Some blooms will be heavily tipped, others lightly marked. The occasional flower may revert to solid dark red. This is normal for bicolour dahlia varieties. Temperature and maturity both affect the patterning. Checkers is one of the more consistent bicolours, but no striped or tipped dahlia is identical from bloom to bloom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Checkers good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne of the best bicolour dahlias for arrangements. The compact 10cm flowers are the right scale for bouquets without dominating, the stems are strong, and the chequerboard pattern gives each stem character. Pick fully open flowers, condition in hot water for an hour. Expect five to six days in a vase.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow Checkers in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. At 100cm with a narrow 45cm spread and compact flowers, it stays proportionate in a container of at least 30cm across. The bicolour blooms look particularly striking in a simple dark pot. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e has the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Checkers compare to Tartan?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/tartan-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eTartan\u003c\/a\u003e is also bicolour but on a much bigger scale: 15 to 20cm dinnerplate flowers in blackcurrant and white. Checkers is compact (10cm), more manageable, and the burgundy-red with white tips gives a softer effect than Tartan's bold stripes. Tartan is the drama. Checkers is the versatile cutter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Checkers need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn a sheltered spot, probably not. The compact habit and moderate flower size keep it stable. In wind, a single cane is enough. Full planting and seasonal care in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999139975494,"sku":"DAHLCHE-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/checkers-dahlia-flowers-1.jpg?v=1755249848"},{"product_id":"dark-spirit-dahlia-tubers","title":"Dark Spirit Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark Spirit\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (small)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep burgundy-red, almost black\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 7 to 8cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Sturdy stems, dramatic in arrangements\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDark Spirit: The Near-Black Dahlia for Moody Borders\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSome dahlias want to be noticed. Dark Spirit wants to be felt. The flowers are a deep burgundy-red so dark they're almost black, especially towards the centre, with velvety petals that curve inward to build a tight, spherical bloom. At 7 to 8cm across, the flowers are small enough to look elegant rather than heavy, and the plant produces them in quantity from July right through to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDon't make the mistake of planting it alone. Like all very dark flowers, Dark Spirit gets lost in autumn shadows unless it has something lighter to play against. Planted with the right companions, that near-black colour becomes the anchor that holds a whole scheme together. Without them, it disappears.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe plant is compact at 90cm with a narrow 45cm spread, sturdy stems and dark green foliage. It's well suited to pots and doesn't need heavy staking. The flowers cut well and last nicely in a vase, and the dark colour makes them a favourite for moody late-summer arrangements and, yes, Halloween.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to Use Dark Spirit in a Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDark Spirit needs contrast. The simplest approach: plant it alongside something pale. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e (milky coffee dinnerplate, much taller) lets the near-black flowers sit in front like dark punctuation against soft ruffles. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-onesta-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWhite Onesta\u003c\/a\u003e (white waterlily-form decorative, 90cm) is a closer height match. For a warm scheme rather than a dark one, try it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-sceptre-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGolden Sceptre\u003c\/a\u003e (bright yellow ball) and the heritage apricot of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (semi-cactus, introduced in 1911). If you want the full moody border, combine Dark Spirit with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/moor-place-pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eMoor Place\u003c\/a\u003e (deep purple pompon, bred in 1955 and still going) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e (deep red semi-cactus spikes), but add a pale grass or silver foliage to stop the scheme becoming a dark hole.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse the full \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/decorative-dinnerplate-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edecorative dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Dark Spirit actually black?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery close. In strong sunlight you'll see the deep burgundy-red underneath, but in shade or evening light the flowers read as near-black. The petals have a velvety texture that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, which adds to the dark impression. True black doesn't exist in dahlias, but Dark Spirit is as close as you'll get without a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Dark Spirit grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWell, actually. At 90cm with small flowers and a narrow spread, it's one of the better dahlias for containers. Use a pot at least 30cm across and deep, with rich compost. Feed fortnightly from June. It looks striking in a dark glazed pot with nothing else competing for attention. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers container growing in detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Dark Spirit a pompon dahlia?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOften confused for one, but no. It's classified as a small decorative. The flowers are spherical because the petals curve inward, but they don't have the tight spiral structure of a true ball or pompon. The \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/types-of-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003etypes of dahlias guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains the difference.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat should I pair it with for flower arranging?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDark Spirit is the anchor bloom in a dark arrangement. Pair it with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/arbatax-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eArbatax\u003c\/a\u003e (white with pink edges) for contrast. Add grasses or seedheads for texture. The small flower size means it doesn't overwhelm a vase the way a dinnerplate does. Five or six stems of Dark Spirit with three stems of something pale and a few wispy grasses makes a very good autumn arrangement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I deadhead?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRegularly, and it matters more with dark dahlias than light ones. Spent blooms of Dark Spirit turn brown-black and are harder to spot against the dark buds behind them, so double-check when you deadhead. Cut back to the next bud junction. The plant will keep flowering until the frosts if you stay on top of it. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999160029510,"sku":"DAHLDARSPI-TUBER","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/dark-spirit-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249851"},{"product_id":"french-cancan-dahlia-tubers","title":"French Cancan Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e French Cancan\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Two-tone orange and pink\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 12cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrench Cancan: Orange and Pink, Named After the High-Kicking Dance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrench Cancan is a decorative dahlia that lives up to its theatrical name. The flowers are a lively two-tone of warm orange and pink, with the colours blending and shifting across the broad petals. At 12cm across on a 90cm plant, it brings warmth and energy to a border without being difficult to manage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt flowers from July to the frosts, produces blooms freely, and the stems are good enough for cutting. At 90cm with a 60cm spread, it sits happily in the middle of a sunny border.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat Goes with French Cancan\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe orange-and-pink tones sit naturally in warm schemes. Plant alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sylvia-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSylvia\u003c\/a\u003e (warm orange ball, brown stems, 80cm) and the heritage apricot of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (semi-cactus, 120cm behind). Helenium and Crocosmia are natural seasonal companions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs French Cancan named after the dance?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlmost certainly. The high-kicking dance associated with Parisian music halls, particularly the Moulin Rouge. The bright, theatrical colour scheme fits the name perfectly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill French Cancan grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm it works in a large container. Feed fortnightly and water regularly. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs French Cancan good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 12cm flowers cut well and the warm two-tone colour looks striking in autumn arrangements. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999179460934,"sku":"DAHLFRECA-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/french-cancan-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249853"},{"product_id":"gallery-leonardo-dahlia-tubers","title":"Gallery Leonardo Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gallery Leonardo\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative (compact\/border)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pastel pink with a green and yellow centre\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 15 to 20cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e June to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Blooms last well, but short stems suit small arrangements only\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eContainer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ideal. Bred specifically for pots and border fronts\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Gallery series, bred by Verwer, Netherlands\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eGallery Leonardo: Big Pastel Flowers on a Tiny Plant\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eGallery Leonardo produces flowers up to 20cm across on a plant that tops out at 50cm tall. That's almost comically out of proportion, and it's part of the charm. The blooms are a soft pastel pink with a green and yellow centre that gives each flower a fresh, dewy quality. The effect is gentle and pretty rather than dramatic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNamed after Leonardo da Vinci and part of the Gallery series bred by Verwer for containers, Leonardo holds the RHS AGM. It's one of the larger-flowered varieties in the series, and the soft colour makes it the easiest to place in a mixed scheme. It flowers from June to November with no staking needed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe short, branching stems mean it's a garden display dahlia rather than a cutting dahlia. In a pot, it's one of the best dahlias money can buy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlanting Partners for Leonardo\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePastel pink and green centres suit soft, romantic schemes. Plant Leonardo in front of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gerrie-hoek-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGerrie Hoek\u003c\/a\u003e (shell pink waterlily, 120cm behind) for a pink gradient that runs from border front to mid-height. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gallery-art-fair-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGallery Art Fair\u003c\/a\u003e (white, same compact height) alongside keeps the scheme cool. Pale Heuchera and silver Stachys at the border edge complete the picture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and gardeners in Somerset on the end of the phone. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan the flowers really be 20cm on a 50cm plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWith good feeding and consistent watering, yes. The flower-to-plant ratio is part of what makes the Gallery series so striking in pots. Individual blooms can be almost as wide as the plant is tall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Gallery Leonardo good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers are beautiful and last well in water, but the stems are short. It works for small posies and table centres, not tall vases. For a pink dahlia with long cutting stems, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gerrie-hoek-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGerrie Hoek\u003c\/a\u003e (waterlily, 120cm) is a better choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat pot size does Gallery Leonardo need?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA pot of 20 to 25cm across with rich compost will work well. Feed fortnightly from June and water regularly. No staking needed. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlias in pots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers container growing in detail.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999180902726,"sku":"DAHLGALLEO-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/gallery-leonardo-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249859"},{"product_id":"karma-prospero-dahlia-tubers","title":"Karma Prospero Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Karma Prospero\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Waterlily\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Soft lilac-pink with dark stems\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Bred specifically for the cut flower trade\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Karma series, bred by Cor and Ronald Verwer, Netherlands. Named after Prospero from Shakespeare's The Tempest\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKarma Prospero: A Cutting Dahlia Bred for the Vase\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Karma series was bred by Cor and Ronald Verwer in the Netherlands specifically for the commercial cut flower trade. Strong stems, upward-facing blooms, long vase life. These are dahlias designed to work as cut flowers first and garden plants second. Karma Prospero is named after the sorcerer from Shakespeare's The Tempest, which is a more literary provenance than most dahlias can claim.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe flowers are a soft lilac-pink, 14cm across, in the flat, open waterlily form: broad petals overlapping in shallow layers, elegant and understated. The dark stems add contrast and look good in a vase whether you strip the leaves or leave them. At 90cm with a compact 50cm spread, the plant is manageable in a border or a large pot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eKarma Prospero in the Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe soft lilac-pink suits pastel and romantic schemes. Plant alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-royal-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait Royal\u003c\/a\u003e (shifting pink dinnerplate) for a pink scheme in two completely different flower forms: flat waterlily against ruffled dinnerplate. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/gerrie-hoek-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGerrie Hoek\u003c\/a\u003e (shell pink waterlily, 120cm behind) gives you a waterlily gradient from soft pink to lilac. For darker contrast, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sam-hopkins-waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSam Hopkins\u003c\/a\u003e (deep maroon waterlily, 100cm) is a dramatic partner in the same flower type.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and real people on the phone in Somerset. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/waterlily-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ewaterlily dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat makes the Karma series special for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Verwer breeding programme selected specifically for cut flower performance: strong stems, upward-facing blooms (no nodding), long vase life, and clean colours that florists can work with. Karma Prospero is a product of that focus. In practical terms, it means the flowers sit upright in a vase without flopping, and they last longer than many dahlia varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Karma Prospero grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with a compact spread, it works well in a container of at least 30cm across. The dark stems look particularly good in a dark or metallic pot. Feed fortnightly from June. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does a waterlily dahlia differ from a decorative?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDepth. Decorative dahlias are fully double with many layers of petals. Waterlily dahlias have fewer petals arranged flat and shallow, overlapping like a lily on a pond. The effect is more elegant and restrained. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/types-of-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia types guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains all the classifications.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Karma Prospero handle rain?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWaterlily flowers are flat and open, so they hold rainwater. Staking and a sheltered position help. The stems are strong enough to cope with some weight, but heavy rain will damage open blooms. Pick flowers before forecast rain and enjoy them indoors. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999230873926,"sku":"DAHLKARPRO-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/karma-prospero-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249865"},{"product_id":"micks-peppermint-dahlia-tubers","title":"Mick's Peppermint Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mick's Peppermint\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-cactus\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e White streaked with bright purple-pink\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 25cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Dramatic in arrangements\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eMick's Peppermint: A Striped Giant with Spiky Petals\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMick's Peppermint is a semi-cactus dahlia with white petals boldly streaked with bright purple-pink. At 25cm across on a 120cm plant, it's a big, dramatic flower with the added visual complexity of the striped pattern on spiky, recurved petals. No two blooms are identical.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt needs staking at this height, and shelter from wind helps. The semi-cactus form sheds rain better than flat decorative types, which is an advantage with flowers this large. Strong stems make it a good cutter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhere to Plant Mick's Peppermint\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eStriped flowers need simple neighbours. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-swan-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWhite Swan\u003c\/a\u003e (pure white, 120cm) provides a clean backdrop. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (near-black, 90cm in front) anchors the scheme. Keep the planting around it calm so the striped pattern is the star.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and real people on the phone in Somerset. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ecactus dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Mick's Peppermint compare to Cafe au Lait Twist?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-twist-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait Twist\u003c\/a\u003e is a ruffled dinnerplate with raspberry streaks over cream. Mick's Peppermint is a spiky semi-cactus with purple-pink streaks over white. Both are striped, both are big. Twist is softer and more romantic. Peppermint is bolder and more graphic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Mick's Peppermint grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm with 25cm flowers, it's too big for a container. Grow it in deep border soil with staking. For a striped dahlia that suits pots, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/checkers-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCheckers\u003c\/a\u003e is more compact. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs the striping predictable?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach flower is different. Some are lightly marked, others heavily striped. This unpredictability is characteristic of striped dahlia sports. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999262953798,"sku":"DAHLMICPEP-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/micks-peppermint-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249862"},{"product_id":"mixed-cottage-garden-cosmos-plants","title":"Cottage Garden Cosmos Collections","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eProduct:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cottage Garden Cosmos Collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCommon name:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cosmos \/ Cosmea \/ Mexican Aster\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Half-hardy annual\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower form:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mixed (single and double varieties)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mixed – selected by us for cottage garden planting\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e Mixed – typically 50–120 cm depending on varieties included\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering period:\u003c\/strong\u003e June–October\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePosition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Full sun (minimum 6 hours)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSoil:\u003c\/strong\u003e Well-drained, ordinary to poor fertility\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/strong\u003e 30 cm (12 in)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGood for cutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Jumbo plug seedlings, hand-sown by us\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e After last frost (mid-May in most areas)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e Late April to May by next-day courier. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCottage Garden Cosmos Collection – A Ready-Made Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis collection is chosen by us to look lovely jumbled together in a border or bubbling out of containers. We select four or more varieties from our range, picking the mix that is looking best at the time of dispatch. We cannot accept requests for specific varieties, and the exact combination varies through the season. What you get is a curated mix that gives you colour, form, and height variation without having to plan it yourself.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCosmos is October's birth flower, alongside the marigold, symbolising balance and harmony. The association is apt because cosmos is typically at its most floriferous in early autumn, still going strong when most summer annuals have given up. A cottage garden collection planted in May will earn its keep right through to the first frosts in October or November, provided you keep deadheading. In Korea and Japan, mass plantings of cosmos draw thousands of visitors to roadside festivals each autumn. You probably do not need quite that many plants, but the principle is the same: cosmos looks best planted in numbers, and a collection gives you the variety without the planning.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003c!-- IMAGE: cottage-garden-cosmos-mixed-border.jpg — alt=\"Mixed cosmos varieties planted in a cottage garden border showing a range of colours and flower forms\" --\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eHow to Use a Cosmos Collection\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe simplest approach is the best. Plant the whole collection in a single drift in a sunny border, spacing the plants 30 cm apart and mixing the varieties randomly. The different heights will sort themselves out, with taller varieties rising above shorter ones, and the mixed colours will create the loose, abundant look that defines a cottage garden. A group of 9–12 cosmos plants makes a good drift. If your collection includes tall varieties (90 cm and above), put support in at planting time. Water regularly in hot weather, especially in the first few weeks. Once established, cosmos are not fussy, but the delicate new roots need protection from drying out in sun and wind.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCosmos pairs well with other cottage garden favourites. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/lavender-plants\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eLavender\u003c\/a\u003e at the front of a border gives you a blue-purple base. \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eDahlias\u003c\/a\u003e behind provide height and overlapping colour. Both share a love of sun and well-drained soil. For a purely cosmos border, browse the individual varieties in our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cosmos-seedling-plugs\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecosmos collection\u003c\/a\u003e and build your own mix.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Ashridge Difference\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eEvery cosmos plug we sell is hand-sown and grown at our Somerset nursery. We source fresh seed each year because cosmos does not come true from saved seed. No contract growing, no outside suppliers. Your plants are hardened off before dispatch and arrive as sturdy jumbo plugs ready for planting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNext-day courier from late April. Our plant guarantee covers anything that arrives damaged or fails to establish. We are a small nursery and when you ring us you speak to the people who grew your plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhich varieties are in the Cottage Garden Cosmos Collection?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWe select from our full range of cosmos varieties, choosing the four or more that are looking strongest at the time of dispatch. The mix varies through the season and year to year, so we cannot guarantee specific varieties. The pictures on the product page are examples only. This is part of the appeal: you get a selection we are proud of, curated by the people who grew the plants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow tall will my cosmos collection grow?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHeight varies depending on which varieties are included. Some, like the Sonatas, stay at 50–60 cm. Others, like the Sensation types, can reach 120 cm or more. Space all plants 30 cm apart and put support in for any that grow above 60 cm. For full growing advice including staking methods, see our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/bedding\/how-to-grow-cosmos\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ecosmos growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow a cosmos collection in pots?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eYes, though results depend on which varieties arrive. Compact varieties like the Sonatas are ideal for containers. Taller varieties will need a large pot (10 litres minimum) and support. If you specifically want cosmos for containers, consider ordering individual compact varieties from our range. For full container advice, see our guide to \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/bedding\/growing-cosmos-in-pots\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003egrowing cosmos in pots\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen can I plant out my cosmos collection?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAfter the last frost, which in most of the UK means mid to late May. Cosmos are half-hardy and will not tolerate cold nights. If a late frost threatens after planting, cover the plants overnight with fleece. In the south you can sometimes risk mid-May; in the north and Scotland, leave it until early June.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs a cosmos collection a good gift?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eCosmos is October's birth flower, symbolising balance and harmony, so a collection makes a thoughtful birthday gift for anyone born that month. More practically, it is a gift that works for gardeners of any experience level. Cosmos are easy to grow, flower all summer, and need nothing more than sun, water, and regular deadheading. A collection gives the recipient a ready-made colour scheme without any planning required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Seedling \/ Cottage Garden Mix","offer_id":54999266689350,"sku":"COSMBIPMIXCOGA-8Plgs","price":13.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"Seedling \/ Mixed Cosmos 2L\/5 Plugs","offer_id":56833319600454,"sku":"COSMOSMIX2L-5PLGS","price":12.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/2-litre-cosmos-pots.webp?v=1782209177"},{"product_id":"night-queen-dahlia-tubers","title":"Night Queen Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Night Queen\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ball dahlia\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep red, almost black in low light\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 65cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Long-lasting in a vase\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eNight Queen: A Dark Red Ball Dahlia at the Back of the Border\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNight Queen is a ball dahlia in deep red that reads as almost black in low light. The tight, spiralling form builds each 10cm flower into a neat globe, and the dark colour gives it a moody, jewel-like quality. At 120cm it's taller than most ball dahlias, suited to the back of a border where the dark globes float above lighter flowers in front.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe stems are strong, the flowers last well in water, and the plant produces them freely from July to November. It needs staking at this height.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eNight Queen in a Scheme\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDark globes need lighter neighbours. Plant with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/boom-boom-white-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBoom Boom White\u003c\/a\u003e (white ball, 100cm) for a dark-and-light pairing in matching forms. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-sceptre-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGolden Sceptre\u003c\/a\u003e (yellow ball, 90cm in front) lifts the dark tones with warmth. Silver foliage or pale grasses stop the scheme from becoming a shadow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and gardeners in Somerset on the phone. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eball dahlias\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Night Queen compare to Dark Spirit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (decorative, 90cm, 7cm) is darker, more compact, and spherical but not technically a ball. Night Queen (ball, 120cm, 10cm) is taller with the tight spiral structure of a true ball dahlia. Both are dark. Different forms, different heights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Night Queen grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm it's too tall for most containers. Grow in a border with staking. For a dark ball dahlia for pots, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e at 90cm is a better fit. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers what works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Night Queen good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery. The 10cm ball form is the perfect scale for bouquets, and the deep colour adds drama to any arrangement. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999277764934,"sku":"DAHLNIGQU-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/deep-red-dahlia-night-queen.webp?v=1782127925"},{"product_id":"peaches-dahlia-tubers","title":"Peaches Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Peaches\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ball\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Light pink with orange spots and blushes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 8cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Lovely in mixed arrangements\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eDahlia Peaches: Soft Pink Ball Dahlia with a Warm Blush\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePeaches is a ball dahlia in soft light pink with warm orange spots and blushes that appear on some petals, giving each flower a peachy, sun-kissed quality. The 8cm blooms are tightly spiralled in the classic ball form, compact and neat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm with a 50cm spread, it's a manageable plant for mid-border or a large pot. The soft colour works in pastel schemes and the ball form adds structure among looser flower shapes. It flowers from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eCompanions for Peaches\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe soft peach-pink mixes naturally with warm pastels. Plant alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/wine-eyed-jill-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWine Eyed Jill\u003c\/a\u003e (peach-and-purple ball, 90cm) for a warm ball-dahlia pairing. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cafe-au-lait-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCafe au Lait\u003c\/a\u003e (milky coffee dinnerplate behind) continues the soft tones at larger scale. Japanese anemones are natural companions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We discard undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eball dahlias\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Peaches good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 8cm ball form is a perfect bouquet size, and the soft colour mixes easily with other flowers. Cut only fully open blooms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Peaches grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 90cm it works well in a container of at least 30cm across. Feed fortnightly, water regularly. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epots guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes the colour vary?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe orange blushes and spots vary from flower to flower. Some blooms are more pink, others more peachy. The overall effect is soft and warm. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999289037126,"sku":"DAHLPEAC-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/peaches-dahlia-flower.jpg?v=1755249863"},{"product_id":"red-cap-dahlia-tubers","title":"Red Cap Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red Cap\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decorative\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Red\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRed Cap: A Straightforward Red Dahlia That Does Its Job Well\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSometimes you just want a red dahlia. Red Cap is a decorative type with 10cm flowers in a clean, no-nonsense red. No two-tone gradients, no colour shifts, no unusual petal forms. Just red flowers on strong stems above green foliage, from July to November.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm with a 60cm spread, it's a reliable mid-border plant. The practical selling point is consistency: every flower is the same red, which makes it easier to plan a scheme around than varieties where the colour shifts between blooms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRed Cap in a Scheme\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRed is the universal warm accent. Plant Red Cap alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/golden-sceptre-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eGolden Sceptre\u003c\/a\u003e (yellow ball, 90cm) for a classic red-and-gold combination. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-swan-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWhite Swan\u003c\/a\u003e (white, 120cm behind) provides clean contrast. For a hot border, combine with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e (deep red semi-cactus, 120cm) and \u003ca href=\"\/products\/brown-sugar-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBrown Sugar\u003c\/a\u003e (paprika ball, 90cm).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Which? Best Plant Supplier, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Red Cap good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 10cm flowers are a practical size for arrangements and the consistent red colour means you know what you're getting. Cut only fully open blooms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Red Cap grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm it's borderline. A large pot with staking will work. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers the options.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Red Cap need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 100cm, a light support is sensible. Full growing advice in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999309582662,"sku":"DAHLREDCAP-Tuber","price":2.92,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/red-cap-dahlia-flowers.jpg?v=1755249866"},{"product_id":"rip-city-dahlia-tubers","title":"Rip City Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rip City\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Semi-cactus\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Deep wine-red with a near-black heart. Velvety\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 10 to 15cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 120cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes. Long strong stems, dramatic in dark arrangements\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRain resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Good. Semi-cactus form sheds water\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e No\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eRip City: The Dark Semi-Cactus That Started the Near-Black Craze\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRip City is the dahlia that made people want dark flowers. The blooms are a deep, velvety wine-red that gets darker and darker towards an almost black heart. The long, narrow petals recurve and twist, giving each flower a spiky, dramatic presence that's nothing like the rounded softness of a decorative or ball type. This is a dahlia with edges.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIt's also a big plant. At 120cm tall and a metre across, Rip City fills serious space and needs proper staking. But the stems are strong and long, the flowers are held upright above the foliage, and the dark green leaves provide a clean backdrop for the near-black blooms. It produces flowers freely from mid-July right through to the first frosts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs a cut flower, Rip City is superb. The long stems and dramatic colour make it the centrepiece of any dark autumn arrangement. Five stems on their own in a dark vase is a statement. Mix it with something pale and the contrast is electric.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlacing Rip City in a Scheme\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eLike all near-black flowers, Rip City needs lighter neighbours or it disappears into shadow. Plant it in groups of at least five for a massed effect, surrounded by white or silver. \u003ca href=\"\/products\/white-swan-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eWhite Swan\u003c\/a\u003e (pure white decorative, same height) is a natural partner. For a warm scheme, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/preference-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ePreference\u003c\/a\u003e (soft apricot semi-cactus, another 120cm plant introduced in 1911) provides texture contrast in the same spiky form but a completely different colour. At the front, the tight purple globes of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rocco-pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRocco\u003c\/a\u003e (pompon, 75cm) pick up the dark tones at a lower level. Grey-leaved Artemisia or silver Stachys provide the foliage contrast that stops a dark scheme becoming a void.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy buy from Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded by us. We look for and reject undersized tubers and clumps lacking enough growing points. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and human support from the team in Somerset. Browse our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003ecactus dahlia\u003c\/a\u003e range or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Rip City actually black?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of the flower is close to black, and in shade or evening light the whole bloom reads as very dark. In direct sunlight you'll see the deep wine-red underneath. The velvety texture of the petals absorbs light, which deepens the impression. If you want the darkest dahlia we sell, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (compact decorative, 90cm) is even darker. Rip City is the better cutter of the two.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does Rip City compare to Dark Spirit?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e is more compact (90cm, 7cm flowers), darker in colour, and has a spherical decorative form. Rip City is taller (120cm, 15cm flowers), slightly less dark, and has the spiky semi-cactus form. For a moody border, plant them together: Rip City at the back with its dramatic spikes, Dark Spirit in front with its tight dark globes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I grow Rip City in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 120cm tall and a metre wide, it's really too big for a container. It'll need constant feeding, watering, and the stems will blow around. Grow it in deep border soil with proper staking. If you want a dark dahlia for a pot, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e at 90cm is much better suited. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e covers what works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes Rip City need staking?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes. At 120cm with large flowers, it needs proper support. Put a stake or support ring in at planting time before the foliage gets in the way. In an exposed garden, a sturdy bamboo cane per stem is safer than a ring alone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWhen should I start Rip City tubers?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou can plant directly outdoors from May when the soil reaches 15°C. For an earlier start, pot the tubers up indoors from March in damp compost, keep them frost-free and let the shoots develop, then plant out after the last frost. This gives you flowers two to three weeks earlier. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/starting-dahlia-tubers-in-spring\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003estarting tubers in spring guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains the process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999315513670,"sku":"DAHLRIPCIT-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/rip-city-dahlia-flowers-2.jpg?v=1755634723"},{"product_id":"small-world-dahlia-tubers","title":"Small World Dahlia Tubers","description":"\u003cul class=\"pdp-specs\"\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eVariety:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small World\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eType:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pompon\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eColour:\u003c\/strong\u003e Milky white, with subtle burgundy flecks appearing as the season progresses\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlower size:\u003c\/strong\u003e 4 to 7cm across\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeight:\u003c\/strong\u003e 110cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSpread:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFlowering:\u003c\/strong\u003e July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCutting:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent. Wonderful mixed with larger, darker dahlias\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWeather tolerance:\u003c\/strong\u003e Outstanding. Flowers and stems handle rain and wind\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRHS AGM:\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes (1998)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSold as:\u003c\/strong\u003e Single tubers, hand-graded, Dutch first-class quality\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlant outdoors:\u003c\/strong\u003e March to July, when soil reaches 15°C (typically May in most of the UK)\u003c\/li\u003e\n  \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDelivered:\u003c\/strong\u003e From March. \u003ca href=\"\/pages\/collect-your-order-from-castle-cary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCollection from Castle Cary\u003c\/a\u003e also available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eSmall World: A White Pompon That Keeps Flowering Through Anything\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIf you've been burned by dahlias collapsing in the rain, Small World is the answer. It holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit, and the reason is weather tolerance. The small, tight pompon flowers are light enough not to catch wind, structured enough not to hold water, and produced on sturdy stems that stay upright when bigger varieties around them are listing sideways. It just keeps going.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe colour is a clean milky white that develops subtle burgundy flecks and wine-tipped petals as the season progresses into autumn. By October you'll have a mix of pure white and faintly wine-touched blooms on the same plant, which gives it a warmer, more interesting look than a fixed white.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAt 110cm it's taller than most pompons, with a 60cm spread and masses of those neat little spheres from July right through to the frosts. The flowers cut beautifully and look particularly good mixed with larger, darker blooms in an arrangement, where the white pompons act as visual breathing space between the richer colours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003ePlacing Small World\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWhite goes with everything, but Small World really shines next to dark colours where the contrast is sharpest. Plant alongside \u003ca href=\"\/products\/dark-spirit-decorative-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eDark Spirit\u003c\/a\u003e (near-black decorative, 90cm) for a dramatic pairing: light and dark, small spheres and larger blooms. The deep purple of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/moor-place-pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eMoor Place\u003c\/a\u003e (burgundy pompon, same form but different colour) makes a natural companion within the same type. For a warmer scheme, the orange ball of \u003ca href=\"\/products\/sylvia-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eSylvia\u003c\/a\u003e (80cm, brown stems) provides autumn warmth against the white. Japanese anemones are a natural seasonal partner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Ashridge?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOur dahlia tubers are Dutch first-class quality, imported direct and hand-graded. We look for and reject undersized tubers so you get a clump with viable eyes, ready to grow. Delivered by next-day courier from March, with our one-year plant guarantee, Feefo Platinum Service Award, and real people on the phone in Somerset if anything isn't right. Browse our other \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epompon dahlias\u003c\/a\u003e or the complete \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia collection\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Small World really that weather-tolerant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt's one of the most weather-resistant dahlias we sell. The small, tightly structured flowers don't hold rainwater the way large decorative types do, and the stems are strong enough to handle wind. In a wet British summer, that's not a trivial advantage. The AGM confirms it performs reliably across a wide range of UK conditions, including the wet ones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Small World good for cutting?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery. The small white pompons are perfect for mixed arrangements, where they act as breathing space between larger, bolder blooms. Try them with \u003ca href=\"\/products\/rip-city-cactus-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eRip City\u003c\/a\u003e (deep red semi-cactus spikes) or \u003ca href=\"\/products\/cornel-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eCornel\u003c\/a\u003e (maroon ball) for dark-and-light impact. Only pick fully open flowers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eWill Small World grow in a pot?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 110cm it's taller than ideal for a container, but the small flowers and sturdy habit make it manageable in a large pot (at least 35cm across and deep). It won't be as productive as in open ground, but it'll give you a good show. For a white dahlia that's truly container-sized, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/boom-boom-white-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBoom Boom White\u003c\/a\u003e (100cm ball) is a slightly more compact alternative. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/dahlias-in-pots\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003econtainer guide\u003c\/a\u003e has more detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Small World a pompon or a ball dahlia?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt sits on the borderline. The flower size ranges from 4 to 7cm, and the dividing line between pompon (under 5cm) and ball (5 to 15cm) runs right through its range. Most catalogues list it as a pompon because the smaller blooms predominate. The form is the same either way: tightly spiralled petals building to a globe. Our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/types-of-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia classification guide\u003c\/a\u003e explains the system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch3\u003eDo the burgundy flecks appear on every plant?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThey tend to develop as the nights get cooler, typically from September onwards. Early-season flowers in July and August are usually a clean milky white. The wine tips and flecks come later and vary in intensity from year to year. If you want consistent pure white all season, \u003ca href=\"\/products\/boom-boom-white-ball-dahlia-tubers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eBoom Boom White\u003c\/a\u003e stays true. Growing and seasonal care advice is in our \u003ca href=\"\/blogs\/garden-plants\/how-to-grow-dahlias\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003edahlia growing guide\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":54999381934406,"sku":"DAHLSMAWO-Tuber","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/small-world-dahlia-flower.jpg?v=1755249869"},{"product_id":"white-aster-tubers","title":"White Aster Tubers","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhite Aster: Pom Pom Dahlia Tubers\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter 120 odd years,\u003cstrong\u003e White Asters \u003c\/strong\u003eare one of the best white \u003cstrong\u003epompom dahlias\u003c\/strong\u003e you can grow for your garden. The profuse, tightly packed pompoms are 5-6 cm across and mostly soft white, with a slightly creamier, faintly yellow centre. It is a superb pot plant and has a great vase life. \u003cbr\u003eBrowse our other \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\"\u003ePom Pom Dahli\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/pom-pom-dahlia-tubers\"\u003eas\u003c\/a\u003e or our full range of \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/dahlia-tubers\"\u003eDahlias here\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eColour: White\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlower size: 5-6 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eType: Pompom\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCutting: Superb\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGood in pots\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeight\/spread; 75 cm x 40cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlowering: July to November\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOutdoor Planting Months: March to July\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eGrowing White Aster Dahlias\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll dahlias do best in deep rich soil with good drainage in a sunny spot. If it is windy they will need staking. They are greedy, thirsty plants so will need watering in dry spells, and they will always flower that little bit better if there is a bit of soluble food in the watering can once every couple of weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhite Aster generally does not grow to more than 75 cm and if you pinch it out at about 30-40cm, you will get more flowers on a lower plant, which won't need staking in a sheltered location. Even so, a few canes and some string will protect it if you get a gale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is generally more convenient to put support stakes in at planting time, rather than leaving it until there is foliage in the way.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ashridge","offers":[{"title":"Tubers \/ Tuber","offer_id":55953047814470,"sku":"DAHLWHIAST-TUBER","price":3.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/files\/white-aster-dahlia-flowerhead.webp?v=1770643708"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0947\/0351\/8022\/collections\/special-offers-thumbnail.webp?v=1773758877","url":"https:\/\/www.ashridgetrees.co.uk\/collections\/special-offers.oembed?page=2","provider":"Ashridge Nurseries","version":"1.0","type":"link"}