Hypnotic plum, purple and white flecks.

Plant in well cultivated soil with a good supply of organic material.

Ideally plant in a sunny site away from strong winds.

Use for border or bed planting but also use short varieties in containers for the patio.

Plant when danger of frost has passed and keep well watered during growth.

Alternatively tubers can be started off in pots and transferred to the border after frosts.

Dead head to encourage fresh flowers.

Dahlias make ideal cut flowers but only cut when flowers are fully formed.

Either lift tubers after flowering and store frost free in dry compost or cover with a mulch over winter.