The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

Dahlia ‘Bodacious’

Dahlia 'Bodacious'

DAH-lee-ah Audio

‘Bodacious’ lives up to its name, with brilliant color and blooms that are supersized in both height and diameter. Heavy-headed ‘Bodacious’ requires beefy stakes. The rich color and ruffled effect of the loosely arranged petals make it stunning as a cut flower. -Alastair Gunn, Dahlias that deliver, Fine Gardening issue #121

Noteworthy CharacteristicsDinner plate sized, vibrant flowers on tall plants.

CareProvide full sun, except in the South, where some shade is preferred, and well-drained soil. Pinching off the first flower bud promotes a bushier plant. Use strong stakes, placing the first one into the hole at planting time. Deadhead regularly, and lift and store the tubers over winter.  

PropagationDivision in spring is preferred. Use a sharp knife to sever tubers ensuring that each division has at least one eye.

ProblemsSlugs, snails, rabbits, earwigs, aphids.

  • Genus : Dahlia
  • Zones : 10, 11, 9
  • Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
  • Bloom Time : Early Fall, Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Summer
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : High
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Plant Type : Perennials
  • Flower Color : Red, Yellow
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide