Decorative Dahlia
Labyrinth Dahlia is a striking decorative cultivar that brings sophistication to summer and fall gardens with its intricate, layered petals in shifting apricot-pink, peach, and yellow tones. The informal decorative blooms reach 7-10 inches across, commanding attention on upright plants that grow 40-48 inches tall. Hardy from zones 3-10 (though some sources indicate zone 8 as the minimum), this dahlia flowers for 90-99 days from planting, blooming continuously from midsummer through the first frost. Its ruffled petals catch and reflect light differently depending on the angle, creating a dynamic, textured effect in borders and cut flower arrangements.

Photo © True Leaf Market(https://www.trueleafmarket.com/products/dahlia-bulbs-labyrinth)
24-36 inches apart
Full Sun
Moderate
3-10
48in H x ?in W
Perennial
High
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The intricate, curled petals of Labyrinth create a dramatic, almost labyrinthine texture that catches the eye from across the garden. Those apricot-pink tones shift and shimmer in different light, making the same flower look different at dawn, midday, and dusk. At 7-10 inches across, each bloom feels substantial enough to anchor a garden display or fill a vase on its own. It blooms relentlessly from midsummer until frost, and its upright, 40-48 inch habit means the flowers stand tall and proud without needing support.
Labyrinth Dahlia thrives in cut flower arrangements, where its large, textured blooms and long stem length make it a florist's dream. The continuous bloom cycle from midsummer to frost means fresh flowers for bouquets and displays throughout the season. Its visual drama also makes it a standout choice for garden borders and beds, where the shifting peach and apricot tones can anchor color combinations with other summer bloomers.
Plant Labyrinth Dahlia tubers outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed. Space tubers 24 inches apart, planting them 4-6 inches deep with the eye (sprouting point) facing upward. In zones 3-7, pre-order tubers in early spring for March shipment to ensure they arrive in time for planting after frost danger passes.
Cut Labyrinth Dahlia flowers when the blooms are fully open and petals feel firm to the touch, which typically occurs in mid to late morning after dew dries. Harvest by cutting stems at least 12-15 inches long using a sharp, clean knife, and immediately place cut stems in cool water. In a vase indoors, these large blooms can last 7-10 days. Continue cutting flowers throughout the season to encourage more blooms and extend the flowering period through the first frost.
Deadhead spent blooms throughout the season to maintain continuous flowering and encourage the plant to redirect energy into new flower production rather than seed development. Pinching out the central growing tip when plants are 12 inches tall encourages branching and a fuller, bushier plant. Remove any lower leaves that touch the soil to improve air circulation and reduce disease pressure.
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