(Dahlia 'Honka') DAL-ee-ah Genus:  Dahlia 'Honka' has a simple, cheerful charm. Its eight-petaled, star-shaped flowers are lightly scented (not many dahlias are fragrant). 'Honka' brings a subtle presence to the late-summer border. Sturdy stems support the flowers above the plant and look good in the front of the border alongside taller perennials with a backdrop of dark foliage. No staking is required. -Alastair Gunn, Dahlias that deliver, Fine Gardening issue #121 Noteworthy Characteristics:  Simple, pale yellow, spidery flowers. Lightly fragrant. Doesn't need staking. Care:  Provide full sun, except in the South, where some shade is preferred, and well-drained soil. Pinching off the first flower bud promotes a bushier plant. Deadhead regularly. Propagation:  Division in spring is preferred. Use a sharp knife to sever tubers ensuring that each division has at least one eye Problems:  Slugs, snails, rabbits, earwigs, aphids.

Overview

Height 1 ft. to 3 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance Moderate Characteristics Fragrant Flowers, Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Fall, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Yellow Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Style Cottage Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials