Dahlia 'Bora Bora'

'Bora Bora' is a sensational cactus-type dahlia that brings a tropical flare to the UK garden. It produces large, double flowers with narrow, fimbriated petals that give it a spiky, ruffled appearance. The colour transition is spectacular, featuring a brilliant coral-pink outer edge that fades into a glowing golden-yellow centre. Reaching a height of approximately 90-100cm, it is an eye-catching focal point for a mid-border position. The stems are strong, though the sheer size of the flowers means some support is usually beneficial during windy UK summer storms. Like other dahlias, it thrives with regular liquid feeding throughout the summer and benefits from a sunny, sheltered site. The tubers are susceptible to rot in cold, wet winters, so lifting and storing in a frost-proof garage or shed is the standard practice for UK gardeners wishing to preserve the plant for the following year.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, fertile loam.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.