Dahlia imperialis ‘Alba’

Dahlia imperialis, the giant tree dahlia, is native to Mexico and Guatemala where it can grow up to 30 feet tall! In cultivation it more commonly reaches 10-20 feet. It is a very late bloomer with 3-4 inch wide, single, white flowers in the ‘Alba’ form (lavender in the species). This imposing oddity is hardy in coastal BC if grown in warm microclimates protected from winter rain such as up against the foundation of the house. Or grow it in a large pot and place as a specimen in the garden. It likely will not flower if grown outdoors year round though the imposing size is a great subtropical garden feature. If in a pot it can be brought into a greenhouse, sun room, or bright window where it will usually flower in the winter.