Plant of the week

Dahlia x cultorum: It looks like bad-hair day but this is how it’s meant to look – fascinating, eye-catching, vibrant and a wonderful addition to the late-autumn garden. Dahlia x cultorum is a member of an illustrious family of fine flowers. It grows from a tuber (planted in early summer) and as long as it has a well-drained, humus-rich and fertile soil and a sunny spot in the garden, it should thrive. It also looks great in a large container.