The bright fiery red of Karma Irene (Dahlia 'Karma Irene') and the waterlily form will sparkle in any garden setting, especially in groups of 3 or more plants.  Bred for the cut flower industry, Karma blooms are prolific, on tall straight stems.  A favorite in Europe and Netherlands, the 6 inch blooms are on 3 to 4 foot plants, and will shine in arrangements.

Dahlias are not hardy in the Chicago region, so if you wish to save the tubers they must be lifted in fall and stored over winter.  Plant in spring when danger of frost is past.