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Dahlia 'Zorro'

Dahlia 'Zorro' Photo/Illustration: Dary Beyers



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Hardiness Zones: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Botanical Name: Dahlia 'Zorro' DAL-ee-ah Genus: Dahlia
Heavy-headed 'Zorro' is breathtaking, particularly as a stemless bloom floating in a bowl of water. Its ruffled-looking form makes its dark red hue look deeper and darker than the deepest, darkest red rose. Staking is absolutely required to prevent the stems from flopping beneath the weight of its huge blooms. Get sturdier stalks by pinching back the young shoots; this will promote increased branching. A confident grower, 'Zorro' consistently produces quality tubers for division and, as such, is the perfect cultivar to start or sustain a collection.
 Noteworthy characteristics: Deep red, ruffled flowers that reach 8 to 10 inches wide. Grows to 4 feet tall unless pinched back.
 Care: Provide 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.
 Propagation: Division in spring is preferred. Use a sharp knife to sever tubers ensuring that each division has at least one eye.
 Problems: Slugs, snails, rabbits, earwigs, aphids.
Height 3 ft. to 6 ft.
Growth Habit Clumps
Light Full Sun to Part Shade
Moisture Medium Moisture
Maintenance High
Characteristics Showy Flowers
Bloom Time Early Fall; Early Summer; Late Summer; Summer
Flower Color Red Flower
Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower
Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden
Seasonal Interest Summer Interest, Fall Interest
Type Perennials

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