A warm glow of orange is a welcome addition to summer and autumn plantings, and Dahlia 'Ludwig Helfert' does the job admirably. This unusual cactus dahlia creates a truly special effect as its outer petals open up and curve under, it’s like the sun bursting out of the clouds. The soft orange tone of Dahlia 'Ludwig Helfert' has touches of saffron yellow, wonderfully complimented by its darker plum-coloured stems and masses of healthy vibrant green foliage.

Dahlia 'Ludwig Helfert' is an excellent cut flower for bringing that burst of orange to a boho bouquet or a kick of jazz to something more muted. Those warm orange tones mix beautifully with darker foliage plants and complement yellows and reds for a really eye-catching display, or can light up a more subdued combination of grasses. At 20cm wide, these flowers have a huge impact. Cactus dahlias make great border plants too, their spikey forms adding extra interest and forming quite the focal point when massed together. Dahlia 'Ludwig Helfert' will thrive in a sunny spot with good, moisture-retentive soil and will be a scintillating presence in the garden through summer and autumn, flowering for weeks on end with regular deadheading.