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.
