Dahlia Bohemian Spartacus

Dahlia ‘Bohemian Spartacus’ is one of those varieties that doesn’t just fill a space, it dominates it. The blooms are large, often pushing well into true dinnerplate size, with wide, slightly irregular petals that give them a more relaxed, almost painterly look. The color is what makes it unforgettable. Deep, velvety red forms the base, streaked and brushed with creamy yellow through the petals. Some flowers show bold contrast, others are more subtle. Every bloom feels a little different, which keeps the plant from ever looking repetitive. It has the scale of a classic dinnerplate dahlia, but with far more character. Plants grow to around 36 to 44 inches tall and produce strong stems that support the large flowers surprisingly well, especially when staked early. Like most dahlias, it blooms continuously from midsummer until the first frost, and the more you cut, the more it produces.  
In the garden, Dahlia ‘Bohemian Spartacus’ is best treated as a focal point. The size of the flowers alone draws attention, and the variation in color makes it even more noticeable. It works well planted in groups or as a standout within a mixed border. Pair it with simpler tones like deep greens, burgundy foliage, or soft creams to let the blooms do the work.  
For cutting, this is a statement flower. The scale makes it ideal for large arrangements, and the natural variation in the petals gives bouquets a less structured, more organic feel. One or two stems can carry an entire arrangement. Plant tubers in spring after the last frost, once the soil has warmed. Choose a sunny position with well-drained soil and give plants enough room to develop properly. Because of the size of the blooms, staking is important from early on to prevent stems from bending or snapping later in the season. In colder regions of the United States, lift tubers after the first frost and store them dry over winter.  
If you want a dahlia that makes a strong impression and keeps it all season long, Dahlia ‘Bohemian Spartacus’ delivers size, color, and variation in a way few others do.