Dahlia - Pink Magic

Pink Magic is a truly enchanting dahlia with blooms that look like oversized water lilies. Each flower features delicate light pink petals streaked with bold magenta lines, radiating from a soft lemon-yellow centre. The result? A magical show of colour and pattern that's guaranteed to draw attention in your garden.

This cheerful variety is a prolific summer bloomer, flowering from the height of summer right through to the first frost. Thanks to its neat 80 cm height, it's a lovely choice for both garden beds and large pots, bringing a soft, romantic charm wherever it grows.

When to Plant

Plant after the last spring frost, once your soil has warmed up to 15°C — usually around early to mid-September depending on your region.

At a Glance

• Tuber Count: 1 (minimum one eye per tuber)

• Plant Height: ± 80 cm

• Spacing Required: 45 cm apart

• Light Requirement: Full Sun

• Blooming Season: Summer through to first frost

• Staking Needed: Yes — especially helpful in windy areas

How to Plant

1. Choose a rich, well-draining spot in your garden or a large pot.

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

3. Dig a hole and plant the tuber with the eye/sprout facing upwards, about 8 cm below the soil surface.

4. Gently press the soil down to eliminate air pockets and water well to settle it in.

Tip for pots: Ensure your container has good drainage to avoid soggy roots.

Tips for Growing Pink Magic

1. Don't overwater newly planted tubers. Too much water early on may cause rot. Water once when you plant, then wait until growth appears before watering again.

2. Keep foliage dry. Water at the base of the plant to reduce the risk of fungal issues. Water deeply 1—2 times a week, allowing the top 2.5 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.

3. Feed regularly. A liquid organic fertiliser every 3—4 weeks keeps blooms coming. Stop feeding from March to help the tubers prepare for winter.

4. Deadhead spent blooms to keep the flowers coming. Use sharp scissors and cut just above a leaf node.

5. Cut long stems for flower arrangements. This not only fills your vases with beauty but encourages more flowers and bushier plants.

6. Store your tubers. Dahlias don't grow true from seed, so if you love Pink Magic, take care of the tubers for future seasons.

7. No need to lift tubers in most parts of South Africa! Simply leave them in the ground to rest over winter, and they'll pop up again in spring.

Storing Tubers (If Not Planting Immediately)

If you're not ready to plant when your tuber arrives, store it in a cool, dark, and dry place until you are. Avoid damp environments to prevent rot.