Dahlia ‘Thelma Maude’ | Giant Deep Burgundy Dinnerplate Dahlia Tuber

Dahlia ‘Thelma Maude’ produces enormous decorative blooms in deep burgundy-red with a rich purple wash, creating an intensely dark, almost black appearance. Its dramatic dinnerplate flowers can reach up to 30cm across and make an impressive addition to garden beds and cut-flower displays.

IMPORTANT: The flower image shown is an example only and is intended as a guide. Flower colour, size and form may vary slightly depending on climate, seasonal conditions and how the plant is grown.

Supplied as one dormant dahlia tuber—not a flowering plant. Dahlia tubers naturally vary in size and shape.

Key Features

• Giant decorative dinnerplate dahlia
• Deep burgundy-red blooms with a purple wash
• Flowers can reach up to approximately 30cm across
• Long flowering period from summer into autumn
• Excellent variety for cutting and floral arrangements
• Tall-growing plant suited to the back of garden beds
• Staking is recommended to support the large flowers

Product Details

• Botanical name: Dahlia hybrid ‘Thelma Maude’
• Common name: Dahlia
• Flower type: Giant decorative dinnerplate
• Flower colour: Deep burgundy-red to near-black with purple tones
• Flower size: Up to approximately 30cm
• Plant height: Approximately 80–150cm
• Plant width: Approximately 50–100cm
• Flowering period: Summer to autumn
• Position: Full sun to light part shade
• Planting depth: Approximately 5–10cm
• Spacing: Approximately 60cm
• Quantity: One dormant tuber

Planting Instructions

Plant during spring or early summer once the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed. Choose a sunny position with fertile, freely draining soil.

Position the tuber horizontally approximately 5–10cm beneath the surface, with the growing point or eye facing upwards. Avoid overwatering while the tuber remains dormant. Once shoots emerge, water regularly during dry periods without allowing the soil to become waterlogged.

Install a stake at planting time to avoid disturbing the roots later. Large blooms can become heavy, particularly following rain or in windy conditions.

Ongoing Care

Apply a complete fertiliser during active growth and mulch around the plant while keeping the emerging stems clear. Deadhead regularly to encourage continued flowering.

Pinching out the central growing tip when the plant is approximately 20cm tall can encourage bushier growth and additional flowering stems. Protect young shoots from snails and slugs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How dark are the flowers?
The flowers are deep burgundy-red with a purple wash. In some light and growing conditions, they can appear almost black.

How large are the flowers?
Well-grown blooms can reach approximately 30cm across, although their final size will vary with growing conditions.

How tall does Thelma Maude grow?
Plants generally grow between approximately 80cm and 150cm tall.

Does it need staking?
Yes. Staking is strongly recommended because the tall stems and large flowers can become heavy.

Can it be grown in a pot?
Yes, provided it is planted in a large, stable container with premium potting mix. Container-grown flowers may be smaller.

Is it suitable for cutting?
Yes. The large, darkly coloured flowers make an impressive addition to floral arrangements.

When will it flower?
It generally flowers from summer into autumn, with timing depending on planting date, climate and seasonal conditions.

What will I receive?
You will receive one dormant dahlia tuber. Its size and shape may vary naturally.