Description

Dahlia Japlou is a standout bicolour variety with real character — warm yellow to soft orange on the face of each petal, contrasted by deep orange-red reverses that flash and shimmer as the breeze moves the blooms. This two-tone effect gives a fiery glow in borders, especially in low evening light, making Japlou a designers favourite for late-summer drama without needing oversized flowers. Every bloom catches attention up close, but also reads clearly from a distance thanks to the hotter tonal backing. A reliable mid-season to late-season flowerer, Japlou performs strongly across Ireland once soil is enriched and frost risk has passed. Flowers July through to first frost, providing steady colour for cottage borders, herbaceous beds, cut-flower production, hotel grounds, allotment rows, patio planters and community garden schemes. Stems are sturdy and well-suited for cutting, holding colour well indoors. Light scent is present when brought inside, subtle and fresh rather than sweet. In biodiversity-focused schemes, double dahlias arent primary nectar sources — but Japlou still draws hoverflies and smaller bees to newly opened blooms, particularly when planted among pollinator-rich partners. For best ecological value, surround with open-centred species such as Cosmos, Scabiosa, Ammi, Verbena bonariensis, Calendula, single Dahlias, Rudbeckia and Salvia. The bright tones also serve as visual draw-plants in a pollinator strip, helping guide insects toward true nectar plants. Plant in full sun, well-drained but moisture-retentive Irish soil enriched with compost. Shelter from strong wind to maintain clean stems. Feed regularly for high bloom count — dahlias are hungry, and Japlou responds immediately to feeding with flushes of flower. Stake early, mulch generously and lift tubers for winter storage in colder inland regions, or leave under deep mulch in mild/coastal locations. Ideal for colour-themed borders, warm-palette prairie schemes, late-season show beds, event planting and florist harvest rows where movement, tone and vibrancy matter.