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. 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. If in a pot it can be brought into a greenhouse or sun room and will often flower in the winter or early spring. Photo: Wikipedia.