A bold and fiery addition to any summer display, Dahlia ‘Moonfire’ features vibrant golden-orange blooms with a soft red flush at the base of each petal, set against deep, near-black foliage. This eye-catching contrast creates a dramatic effect in borders and containers, flowering continuously from midsummer until the first frost. Compact and free-flowering, it’s perfect for adding warmth and energy to pollinator-friendly planting schemes.
Dahlia ‘Moonfire’, commonly known as Moonfire Dahlia, is a compact variety bred for both foliage and flower colour, offering high-impact design with minimal fuss.
Tender Perennial
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Upright, Flowering, Summer–Autumn Interest
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Flowers: July–October
Foliage: Spring–Autumn
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Scientific Name
Dahlia ‘Moonfire’ (genus named after Swedish botanist Anders Dahl)
Synonyms
None widely used
Common Name
Moonfire Dahlia
Origin
Cultivated hybrid; Dahlias are native to Mexico and Central America
Pruning Tips
Deadhead regularly to prolong blooming. Cut back stems in late autumn after the first frost, or lift tubers to store if overwintering indoors.
Wildlife Value
Single, open-centred flowers are highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Positioning
Full sun is essential for best flowering. Ideal for mixed borders, pots, and cut flower gardens.
Water
Water deeply and regularly during the growing season. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew; water at the base of the plant.
Soil
Fertile, well-drained soil is ideal. Improve heavy soils with compost or grit. Mulch in spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Food
Feed with a high-potash fertiliser every 1–2 weeks from midsummer to encourage blooms. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers which promote leafy growth.
Pet-safe
Toxic if ingested – keep away from pets and children.
Sprouts Top Tips
To overwinter successfully in the UK, lift the tubers after the first frost and store them in a cool, dry, frost-free place until spring – or grow in pots you can move undercover.
