Dahlia imperialis1SHSU.jpg. by Shu Suehiro. CC BY 3.0. via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Tree Dahlia Plant Care
Dahlia imperialis Roezl ex Ortgies
Dahlia imperialis, or bell tree dahlia, is a flowering plant in the family Asteraceae that grows 8–10 metres tall. It is native to Mexico, Central America and Colombia. It is a plant of the uplands and mountains, occurring at elevations of 1,500–1,700 metres (4,900–5,600 ft), and its leaves are used as a dietary supplement by the Q'eqchi' people of San Pedro Carchá in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.[1]
Every 7–10 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–75°F
40–60%
What Is the Tree Dahlia?
Tree Dahlia (Dahlia imperialis) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Dahlia genus. Tree Dahlia is native to the Americas. Tree Dahlia is also known as Imperial Dahlia, Dahlia lehmannii.
Tree Dahlia displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 3 inches tall with a spread of approximately 2 inches. Tree Dahlia produces large, showy blooms in various colors.
Leaf size: approximately 6 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Tree Dahlia?
Dahlia imperialis requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 7–10 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Tree Dahlia Need?
Tree Dahlia thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–6000 lux. Avoid placing Tree Dahlia in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–6000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Tree Dahlia Prefer?
Dahlia imperialis grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Tree Dahlia prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
60–75°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Tree Dahlia?
Well-draining, fertile soil with added compost or organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Tree Dahlia to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Tree Dahlia?
Divide and repot tubers every spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Tree Dahlia?
Tree Dahlia can be propagated through division of tubers, stem cuttings. Similar propagation techniques also apply to dahlia plant care, which shares the same genus.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Tree Dahlia Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Tree Dahlia?
Tree Dahlia is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, slugs. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Tree Dahlia Need?
Tree Dahlia grows outdoors in USDA Zone 9a – 11b. Native to the Americas, Tree Dahlia is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Tree Dahlia as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 9a – 11b
Keep exploring plants
Tree Dahlia is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Dahlia genus — compare its care with other Dahlia species on PlantoScan.
Tree Dahlia tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
More Dahlia Species
Other Dahlia species in PlantoScan's care catalogue share similar watering, light, and soil preferences:
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