Dahlia - Douglas Fanta'o

Douglas Fanta'O is a bold and brilliant semi-cactus dahlia, known for its large, bright orange blooms that radiate warmth and energy. The spiky petals give each flower added texture and drama, while the tall, upright stems make this variety a standout in both garden beds and cutting gardens.

Reaching a height of approximately 120 cm, Douglas Fanta'O thrives in full sun and is perfect for gardeners wanting to add a splash of vivid colour to borders, flower patches, or vase arrangements.

When to Plant

Plant your tuber after the last spring frost, once the soil has warmed to at least 15°C — usually by early to mid-September in most regions of South Africa.

At a Glance

• Tuber Count: 1 (minimum one eye guaranteed)

• Plant Height: ± 120 cm

• Spacing Required: 45 cm

• Light Requirement: Full Sun

• Blooming Season: Summer through first frost

• Staking Needed: Yes — tall stems benefit from support

How to Plant

1. Choose a well-draining, nutrient-rich flower bed or large container with proper drainage.

2. Loosen soil to a depth of 30 cm and mix in compost and an all-purpose granular fertiliser.

3. Place the tuber with the eye or sprout facing upward, about 8 cm below the soil surface.

4. Backfill the hole, firm the soil, and water thoroughly to settle and eliminate air pockets.

5. Ensure pots have drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.

Tips for Growing Douglas Fanta'O

1. Water wisely. Water well when planting, then wait until sprouts appear before watering again. Overwatering early on can cause rot.

2. Keep foliage dry. Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the top 2.5 cm of soil to dry out in between.

3. Feed regularly. Apply an organic water-soluble fertiliser every 3—4 weeks through the season. Stop fertilising by March for better overwintering.

4. Deadhead often. Removing spent blooms encourages continued flowering. Snip above the leaf node using clean, sharp garden scissors.

5. Harvest for the vase. Cutting long stems not only provides beautiful bouquets but also encourages more blooms and branching.

6. Preserve your stock. Dahlias don't grow true from seed. To keep this variety going, look after your tubers over winter.

7. Overwinter in-ground. In most of South Africa, lifting tubers isn't necessary. Simply leave them in the ground, and they'll return next spring.

Storage Note

If you're not planting immediately, store your tubers in a cool, dry, dark place until planting time. Avoid dampness and direct sunlight to prevent sprouting or rotting.