How to Grow American Legion
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American Legion
Dahlia × pinnata 'American Legion'
flowerAmerican Legion is a stunning dahlia cultivar known for its large, vibrant orange-red blooms with a semi-double to double flower form. This popular ornamental produces abundant flowers throughout the growing season, making it a favorite for cut flowers and garden displays. It typically grows as a tender perennial in most climates, requiring lift-and-store overwintering in cold zones.
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Example American Legion timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant American Legion
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First American Legion blooms
Around Jun 26≈ 70 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact American Legion dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 8-11; can be grown as annuals in cooler zones or with winter protection
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Tuber Sprouting
2-3 weeksDahlia tubers develop shoots and fine roots, appearing as small green sprouts emerging from the soil.
Plant in warm soil (60°F+) after last frost date. Keep soil moist but not soggy to prevent rot. Provide bright light once sprouts appear.
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksPlant develops branching stems and compound pinnate foliage with deep green leaves. Height increases rapidly.
Water regularly and deeply. Apply balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. Pinch back growing tips when 12 inches tall to encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Bud Formation & Flowering
8-12 weeks or until frostLarge flower buds appear at branch tips. Vibrant orange-red semi-double to double blooms open progressively throughout the season.
Continue regular watering. Switch to higher phosphorus fertilizer to promote blooming. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Stake or support if needed.
Peak Bloom
6-8 weeksMaximum flower production with large, fully double blooms in brilliant orange-red coloring. Flowers measure 4-6 inches across.
Maintain consistent watering. Continue deadheading. Cut flowers for arrangements in early morning. Watch for spider mites and powdery mildew in hot weather.
Senescence & Dormancy
4-6 weeks or until hard frostFlowering slows as temperatures drop and days shorten. Foliage may show frost damage. Tubers harden and enter dormancy underground.
In zones 8 and warmer, allow foliage to die back naturally after first frost. In cooler zones, lift and store tubers indoors. Cut back stems to 4-6 inches before digging tubers.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray foliage with water to dislodge mites. Use miticide if severe. Increase humidity around plants.
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Hand-pick beetles in early morning. Use neem oil or insecticide spray. Install pheromone traps away from plants.
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Remove and destroy infested foliage. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil weekly.
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove affected flowers. Improve air circulation.
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Hand-pick in evening. Use slug traps or barriers. Apply food-grade diatomaceous earth around base.
Uses
Edible Flower Garnish
CulinaryDahlia petals are edible and can be used as a decorative and mild-flavored garnish for salads, desserts, and beverages. The petals add visual appeal and a slightly earthy, sweet taste. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
HouseholdAmerican Legion dahlias are prized cut flowers for bouquets, floral arrangements, and decorative displays. Their large, vibrant blooms add drama and color to both fresh arrangements and special events. [source]
Pollinator Support
WildlifeDahlia flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden, supporting local ecosystem health and biodiversity. The abundant nectar and pollen make them excellent for pollinator gardens. [source]
Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftDahlia blooms can be dried for use in dried flower arrangements, wreaths, and craft projects. Hang flowers upside down in a cool, dark, dry location for 2-3 weeks. [source]
Traditional Medicine
MedicinalIn traditional herbalism, dahlia tubers and flowers have been used in some cultures to support digestive health and inflammation management, though modern scientific evidence is limited. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut flowers in early morning when stems are fully hydrated for longest vase life. Harvest when petals are fully open but center disk is still tight. Cut stems at 45-degree angles and immediately place in cool water. Remove lower leaves before arranging. Dahlia blooms typically last 7-10 days in a vase. Deadhead spent flowers on the plant to encourage continued blooming throughout the season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dahlias were named after Swedish botanist Anders Dahl in the 18th century and were originally cultivated by the Aztecs in Mexico for food and ceremonial purposes.
- 🌱 The American Legion dahlia variety was named to honor American veterans and has become a classic favorite in American cottage gardens since its introduction in the early 20th century.
- 🌱 Dahlias produce tuberous roots that can be divided and stored over winter in cold climates, allowing gardeners to multiply their plants and save heirloom varieties year after year.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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