Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight'

Midnight has a colour all of its own, and Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight' comes impressively close to capturing it. Its rounded flowers are a deep, velvety maroon, with subtle purple-red undertones that emerge when the light catches the petals. Towards the centre, the colouring becomes darker still, creating the illusion of almost black flowers. Each bloom is formed from neatly overlapping, gently curled petals, although the shape is slightly more relaxed than that of some traditional ball dahlias. Measuring around 10–12cm across, the flowers are beautifully proportioned, carried on strong stems above fresh green foliage. Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight' has a wonderfully rich, understated presence that becomes particularly striking in the softer light of late summer. For a beautifully atmospheric combination, pair Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight' with pale apricot dahlias, dusty pink cosmos and airy ornamental grasses. Its dark flowers also look remarkable beside cream and ivory shades, where the contrast brings out their subtle burgundy highlights. Growing to around 90–100cm, Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight' is particularly appealing for cutting, producing sturdy stems that hold the rounded blooms beautifully in arrangements. Give it a sunny, sheltered position in fertile, well-drained soil, with support if needed. Water during dry spells and pick or remove faded flowers to encourage fresh blooms until the first autumn frosts. Start tubers under cover in spring or plant outside once frost has passed, lifting them for frost-free winter storage in colder UK gardens. Dahlia 'Jowey Midnight' brings a lovely sense of depth to the season.