(Dahlia 'Zorro') DAL-ee-ah Genus:  Dahlia For a change of pace, 'Zorro' looks fantastic floating stemless in a bowl of water. The ruffled petals accentuate the dark red hue. Staking is a must to prevent the stems from flopping beneath the weight of its huge and heavy blooms. Pinch back the young shoots to promote branching and sturdier stalks. 'Zorro' consistently produces quality tubers for division and, as such, is the perfect cultivar to start (or sustain) a dahlia collection. -Alastair Gunn, Dahlias that deliver, Fine Gardening issue #121 Noteworthy Characteristics:  Deep red, ruffled flowers that reach 8 to 10 inches wide. Grows to 4 feet tall unless pinched back. 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. Use strong stakes, placing the first one into the hole at planting time. 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 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Habit Clumps Light Full Sun to Part Shade Moisture Medium Moisture Maintenance High Characteristics Showy Flowers Bloom Time Early Fall, Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer Flower Color Red Uses Beds and Borders, Cut Flower Style Cottage Garden, Formal Garden Seasonal Interest Summer Interest Type Perennials