Lover Boy

Lover Boy brings the kind of deep color that makes a planting feel instantly richer, and he holds his own in an arrangement. Red/burgundy, with narrower pointed petals that create a lively, starburst-like profile.

Bloomed at Hedge & Alchemy in our 2026 garden.

📖 From the journal of Hedge & Alchemy

Wow. I did not expect to fall for a red flower, but he is rich, luscious, sultry, romantic, and gorgeous. It’s the perfect red to me: not too dark and not too bright.

📋 Cultivar Notes

• Breeder / Hybridizer: Nick Gitts (Swan Island Dahlias)
• Year of Introduction: Unknown
• Origin: USA
• Form: Semi-Cactus (SC)
• ADS Classification Number: 2207 (B / Medium, over 6 to 8 inches / Semi-Cactus / Dark Red)
• Cut Flower Status: Good. The form lends itself well to bouquet work; vase life can vary with harvest stage and conditions.
• Show & Exhibition Flower Status: Potentially. Confirm the current ADS listing and class before entering.

🌸 In the Garden

• Bloom: Blooms are reported at approximately 6 inches. The semi-cactus flowers are described as red/burgundy, with narrower pointed petals that create a lively, starburst-like profile.
• Plant Height & Habit: Approximately 4.5 feet tall, with an upright, branching habit. Stake as needed for height and bloom weight.
• Growing Notes: Usually around 4.5 feet tall. Pinch early for branching and give solid support once the plant is carrying flowers.
• Tuber Yield: Not yet tracked at Hedge & Alchemy.