Description

Dahlia Hollyhill Spiderwoman is grown for flower shape first. The spider form has long, narrow petals that twist and curl, creating an open, spiky silhouette that looks more sculptural than a standard decorative dahlia. The colouring is typically deep magenta-purple to burgundy-red, giving the blooms real presence from mid summer into autumn. Horticulturists use spider dahlias as feature plants in display borders and entrance beds because they look as something different even from a distance, and they add texture to mixed planting without needing lots of companion colour. In Irish gardens it works best near patios, paths and front borders where the unusual form can be appreciated up close, or as a statement plant in a large container. It cuts well, giving striking stems for modern bouquets and late season arrangements, and regular cutting or deadheading encourages repeat flowering into autumn. Pair it with ornamental grasses, silver foliage, whites and deep burgundies to keep the look clean and let the spider form do the work. Plant after frost risk has passed, in full sun and fertile, free draining soil improved with compost. Keep moisture steady through summer, stake if exposed, feed from bud stage onwards and deadhead regularly to maintain continuous buds. Lift and store tubers frost free after the first frosts for reliable replanting in Ireland.