This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.

• Position: full sun
• Soil: fertile, humus-rich soil
• Rate of growth: average
• Flowering period: July to September
• Hardiness: half hardy (will need winter protection)
  
  Lose yourself in this spectacular dahlia with contrasting, dark bronze serrated leaves and ruffled, semi-double flowers in sunset shades of salmon, coral and yellow. ‘Dreamy Fantasy’ is a compact variety, blooming on sturdy, upright stems, and is perfect for planting in containers to bring vivid colour to a patio that also makes for excellent, long-lasting cut flowers for the vase.
  
  
• Garden care: Provide a high-nitrogen liquid feed each week in June, then a high-potash fertiliser each week from July to September. Stake with canes or brushwood if it becomes necessary. Once the first frosts of autumn have blackened the foliage, carefully lift and clean the plants and allow them to dry naturally indoors (don't forget to label them!). Place the dry tubers in a shallow tray, just covered with slightly moist potting compost, sand or vermiculite. Store in a frost-free place, checking frequently over the winter months.