Dahlia pinnata is a perennial herbaceous plant with a rhizome and tuberous roots, reaching a height of 70 to 120 centimetres (28 to 47 inches), rarely 160 cm.

D. x pinnata was shown to actually be a variant of D. sorensenii that had acquired hybrid qualities before it was introduced to Europe in the sixteenth century and formally named by Cavanilles.

According to Glenn Ross Whitley, this plant's roots contain some inulin and the tubers have "antibiotic compounds concentrated in [their] skin".

[8] Dahlias prefer rich soil (pH level estimated at around 6.5–7.5) with enough organic matter.

When the harsh weather of winter is approaching, the dahlias should be dug up and stored in a safer place for them.

[7] Many dahlia pinnata types can grow from seeds but more often they are cultivated by division of the tuberous roots or by stem cuttings.