Dahlias are half hardy, so keep them protected from frost. Pot tubers individually between February and April and grow them on in a greenhouse or bright indoor position. Alternatively, start them outside in May, once the risk of frost has passed.
'Dark Fubuki'
Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' is a variety that thrives on drama, bringing depth and intrigue to the summer garden. Its richly coloured blooms shift with the light, appearing deep claret red in brighter conditions before darkening to smoky brown and near-black as evening falls. This chameleon quality gives Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' an almost theatrical presence, each flower revealing new character as the day unfolds. The petals are beautifully formed, with a refined texture that softens the intensity of the colour and keeps the overall effect elegant rather than severe. Set against green foliage, the dark blooms feel sculptural and confident, offering a striking contrast that draws the eye without shouting. Whether paired with pale companions or woven into a moody planting scheme, Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' adds a sense of sophistication and quiet power rarely matched by lighter varieties.
Flowering from midsummer through to the first frosts, Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' provides consistent interest at a time when richness of colour truly comes into its own. Its sturdy stems hold the blooms well above the foliage, making it a strong performer in borders and an excellent choice for cutting. In arrangements, Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' brings depth and contrast, elevating softer shades and adding a contemporary edge. Despite its dark palette, the plant feels balanced and composed, rewarding close inspection as much as distant admiration. For gardeners drawn to bold colour with a refined finish, Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki' is a memorable and expressive choice.
Quantity
Plant profile
Plant calendar
For planting out later, use a snug-fitting 15–20cm pot filled with peat-free multipurpose compost. For a patio display, plant directly into a container at least 30cm wide and keep it somewhere bright and frost free until it can move outdoors.
Position the old stem facing upwards, with the tubers covered and the stem stump level with the compost. Tubers naturally vary in size and shape and may arrive without visible buds. Bent necks are usually fine if they remain firmly attached, so do not remove them.
Water after planting, then allow the compost to become almost dry before watering again while the tuber remains dormant. Once shoots and leaves are growing strongly, water more regularly, always allowing excess water to drain away.
Plant out after the last frost, once the plant is around 20–30cm tall and its roots hold the compost together. Space dahlias approximately 30–50cm apart in borders, allowing less room for compact varieties. Water thoroughly after planting.
Water regularly during active growth and deadhead or cut flowers often. Dahlias usually bloom from July or August until the first frost, although later-planted tubers may start in late August or September. In autumn, lift, clean and dry the tubers, then store them somewhere cool, dry, airy and frost free.
- Botanical name
- Dahlia 'Dark Fubuki'
- Flower colour
- Deep claret, red, brown, near-black
- Tuber size
- 1
- Established height
- 1-1.2m
- Established spread
- 30-50cm
- Growing skill
- Easy to grow
- Habit
- Upright
- Hardiness
- Half hardy
- Leaf colour
- Green
- Mouse resistant
- No
- Plant spacing
- 5 tubers per m2
- Pollinator friendly
- No
- Position
- Sheltered
- Rabbit resistant
- No
- Scented
- No
- Soil acidity
- Any
- Soil moisture
- Free draining
- Soil type
-
Loam
Sandy
Multipurpose compost
Loam-based compost - Suitable for
-
Large containers
Borders
Gravel gardens
Coastal gardens
Cottage gardens
Low maintenance gardens
Cut flower gardens - Sunlight
-
Full sun
Partial shade - Toxicity
- No report
- Years to establish
- 1st year
Expert care from
choice to delivery
Our horticulturalists prepare every bulb and plant with the utmost care. From selection to packing, each one receives expert attention before beginning its journey to your garden.