Tree Dahlia: Melanie

D. apiculata X D. tenuicaulis syn. Melanie

Bred by Dr Melanie Gatt, a genetics specialist at Auckland University. This was the genetics practicum component of her PhD 25 years ago. 

This tree dahlia is really a medium sized shrub growing 2m wide and 1.5m tall with long arching canes and fine pinnate lime green leaves. Semi woody perennial with a thin lax canes.

I love the fine foliage of this tree dahlia, the light brown canes and the light mauve flowers. So do the bees, moths and monarchs.

Hardy, fast growing and bred locally so it's tough. Thin and long tubers grow 1m plus in length. Divide every four or five years. Vigorous. Some shelter is appreciated. Can tolerate winds up to 30kmph. No known pest or disease issues. 

Very reliable with solid New Zealand genetics. Flowers March to June, then again  September to October, in Auckland. Trim canes in late June for a spring flush. Cut to two nodes above soil in October to stimulate fresh spring growth.

Tree dahlia tuber clumps are sold bare rooted with some soil and canes are cut down for shipping and to focus the plants energy on root growth. You are buying a two year old 30cm x 30cm tuber clump weighting approximately 5-7kg.