Rusty Dahlia

FD

Rusty dahlia

Description

Rusty is an eye-catching dahlia with warm, burnished tones—think coppery orange, terracotta, and rust—that deepen beautifully as the blooms mature. Its full, layered flowers bring rich autumn color to the garden and make standout cut stems for arrangements, pairing especially well with creams, burgundies, and foliage-heavy bouquets. A reliable bloomer in the heat, Rusty adds a bold, earthy glow from midsummer right into fall.

Specifications

FormFD
ColorDB
Year introduced<1980

How to grow Rusty

Rusty is a FD. Plant tubers 12–18 inches apart in full sun after the last frost. Pinch when plants reach 12 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.

Harvest & vase life

FD-form dahlias like Rusty harvest dahlias when blooms are three-quarters to fully open. With clean cuts and fresh water, most varieties last 4–7 days in the vase.

Similar dahlia varieties

Frequently asked questions

What color is Rusty?

DB — ADS color classification for Rusty.

Is Rusty good for cut flowers?

Yes. Dahlias are among the most popular cut flowers for home and market growers. Expect 4–7-day vase life with proper hydration.