Akita Dinner Plate Dahlia

If you’re looking for multi-colored hues in your dinner plate dahlias, 'Akita' Dahlia is a terrific choice. The 10” decorative blooms are primarily a deep red-raspberry tipped with white, but they open to hints of orange within. The colors continue to morph as the blossom ages and as new buds open--the result is a rainbow of color on one plant. Blooms are held above deep-green foliage with a good mid-size habit, which makes it ideal for middle-of-the-border installations.

Dahlias are perennial in zones 8-10, but in cooler zones, tubers can be dug after frost comes, stored over winter, then re-planted the following spring. Grow Dahlias in a sunny spot, in average soil that drains well. Keep moisture consistent once it begins to grow and enjoy a non-stop color parade. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowers and pinch off small side buds to encourage larger flowers if desired.