The Dahlia Brothers

The Lowdown on Dahlias

From top left, going clockwise: Unknown variety—a treasured gift from a friend, 'Inca Trident', 'Honka', 'Klondike.'

Want to grow these pretty flowers in your own backyard? Here's what you need to know to achieve blooming success:

Bloom time: Midsummer to first frost.

In the zone: Hardy in Zones 8 to 11; tuberous roots must be wintered indoors in northern areas.

How big: 2 to 8 feet high; 1 to 3 feet wide.

Flower power: Blooms sport every color but blue and green; shapes vary from pompon to daisy-like—and can be as tiny as 1 inch or more than 15 inches!

Light needs: Full sun.

The dirt: Soil should be rich and well-draining.