Formby Duke Dahlia Tuber

*Bloom confirmed right before Frostmas*

Formby Duke is a dinnerplate dahlia with layers of smoky, dusty rose petals that soften as the blooms mature. Its full, rounded flowers can reach 8–10 inches across, giving a summer border an eye-catching focal point. Cut a stem for a vase on the kitchen table, or pair it with ivory flowers to bring out the antique pink tones in a wedding bouquet.

Details

• Form — Formal Decorative (FD)
• Bloom Size — A (Large, 8–10 inches)
• Plant Height — Typically Medium (about 4 feet), though some growers report up to 5 feet
• Stem Strength — Strong
• Unicorn Status — Rare
• Primary Color — Dusty rose pink
• Secondary Color — Muted salmon undertones

A Bit of History

George Harding bred Formby Duke in Tasmania, Australia, as part of his Formby series. Its smoky pink color and symmetrical petals have made it a favorite for floral design and exhibition. It took Best A at the West Michigan Dahlia Society’s 2024 show.

Ideal For

• Cutting gardens
• Wedding bouquets and centerpieces
• Focal points in summer borders
• Dahlia exhibitions

Pairs Well With

• White lisianthus adds a soft ivory contrast that highlights the dusty rose petals.
• Burgundy cosmos deepens the palette and adds a lighter, more delicate flower shape.
• Blush snapdragons add vertical texture alongside the broad, rounded blooms.