Description

Dahlia Santa Claus is grown for strong, festive contrast. The flowers present primarily in bright red tones, finished with clear white tipping that gives a graphic, eye catching look in the border. Irish horticulturists use this type of red and white pattern in high visibility beds and promotional planting because it reads clearly from a distance and looks deliberate even in mixed summer weather. In private gardens it is ideal for front borders and large patio containers, where the colour contrast stands out against green foliage and where flowers are visible from the house. It also makes a strong cut flower for bold bouquets, and regular picking encourages more buds. Pair it with white companions, silver foliage and ornamental grasses to keep the scheme tidy, or use it with deeper reds for a richer late season palette. Plant after frost risk in full sun and free draining soil improved with compost. Water evenly, stake if exposed, feed from bud stage onwards and deadhead regularly to keep flowering continuous. Lift and store tubers frost free after the first frosts.