Dahlia 'Honka Fragile'

'Honka Fragile' is an elegant star-type (orchid) dahlia with a refined, minimalist aesthetic. It produces single flowers with eight narrow, pointed petals that roll inwards to create a delicate star shape. The petals are predominantly white but are edged with a very fine, distinct margin of rosy-pink or red, surrounding a bright yellow heart. This cultivar is part of the 'Honka' series, known for its airy, open habit and attractiveness to butterflies and bees. Reaching about 70-90cm, it has a lightness of form that allows it to blend easily into more naturalistic planting schemes, unlike some of the heavier decorative dahlias. In the UK, it is prized for its high flower count and its ability to withstand wind better than larger-flowered varieties. As a tuberous perennial, it requires lifting and frost-free storage during the winter. It thrives in a sunny spot with fertile, well-drained soil.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Fertile, well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H3 — down to −5°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct.