Dahlia ‘Rip City’ is a stunning semi-cactus variety known for its large, velvety, deep wine-red blooms that appear almost black at the center . Reaching 90 to 120 cm in height, it produces long, sturdy stems that make it an exceptional, dramatic choice for both summer gardens and floral arrangements. [1, 2]
Key Characteristics
- Flower Type: Semi-cactus; petals are long, narrow, and pointed, recurving for more than half their length to create a ruffled, spiny appearance.
- Color: Deep, dark reddish-black with a velvety texture.
- Bloom Size: Flowers typically measure about 10 to 15 cm across.
- Plant Size: Grows to approximately 90–120 cm (3–4 feet) tall with a spread of around 100 cm.
- Bloom Time: Mid-summer (July) through the first autumn frosts. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Growing & Care Tips
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun for the best flowering, though light afternoon shade is appreciated in extremely hot climates. [1]
- Soil & Moisture: Requires fertile, well-draining soil and consistent moisture; do not let the soil dry out. [1, 2]
- Maintenance: Deadhead spent flowers and harvest stems regularly to promote continuous blooming. Tall stems may require light staking to protect them from strong winds. [1, 2]
- Overwintering: In cooler climates (Hardiness Zones 3-7), carefully dig up tubers before the first frost and store them in a cool, dark, frost-free location.
