Description

Dahlia Bristol Stripe is grown for its dramatic painted look. The blooms are typically white to creamy white, heavily splashed and striped with purple, and no two flowers are exactly the same. This makes it an excellent retail variety for customers who want something unusual and conversation starting. Irish horticulturists often use striped dahlias as feature plants in display borders and near entrances, because they draw attention and look distinctive even from a distance. In private gardens it is best placed where the flower detail can be enjoyed up close, such as near patios, paths and seating areas, or grown in large containers as a statement plant. It cuts well, bringing a bold patterned stem to bouquets. Pair it with purples, whites and silver foliage for a coherent scheme, or use it to break up blocks of solid colour. Plant after frost risk in full sun and fertile, free draining soil improved with compost. Keep moisture steady, stake if exposed, feed from bud stage onwards and deadhead regularly for repeat flowering. Lift and store tubers frost free after the first frosts.