Dwarf dahlia varieties

Dwarf dahlias are the varieties we record as compact, with an average height under 60 cm (about 2 feet) taken from the midpoint of the height range. The table below compares every variety we list side by side.

Varieties
6
Height
1–2 ft (30–61 cm)
Hardiness
USDA zones 8–11
Form

5 Informal decorative

1 Waterlily

Compare all 6 side by side

How to choose

  1. Check the Height column if you are filling a pot. Oregon State University Extension says low-growing and dwarf varieties are the best types of dahlias for container gardening.

  2. Compare the Form column. Compact plants come in several bloom forms, so the height filter and the form filter work together.

  3. Check how each variety is sold on its record. NC State Extension notes that seed-grown dahlias are typically dwarfs, often not heat tolerant and poor bloomers.

Compare side by side

Color Sunlight
Firepot Waterlily 1½–2 ft (51–61 cm) 8–10 Late summer, Fall Full sun
Gallery Art Nouveau Informal decorative (estimated) 16 in (41 cm) 9–11 Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Gallery Bellini Informal decorative (estimated) 14 in (36 cm) 9–11 Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Gallery Pablo Informal decorative (estimated) 14 in (36 cm) 9–11 Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Gallery Rembrandt Informal decorative (estimated) 16 in (41 cm) 9–11 Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun
Gallery Singer Informal decorative (estimated) 12 in (30 cm) 9–11 Midsummer, Late summer, Fall Full sun

Values marked like this (estimated) are estimates.

Frequently asked questions

Can dwarf dahlias grow in containers?

Yes. Oregon State University Extension names low-growing and dwarf varieties as the best dahlias for containers, and NC State Extension lists container gardens among the places dahlias work well.