About Dahlia Flowers
One of the most popular and beloved summer flowers, dahlias are known for their large, colorful, ornate blooms. The dahlia plant is a genus of the Asteraceae family, which also includes flowers such as sunflowers, mums, and zinnias. Dahlias are native to Central America and Mexico and were initially grown as a food source for their edible tubers. A perennial plant, dahlias bloom from mid-summer through fall and do best in regions with a moist, moderate climate.
Popular Dahlia Varieties
Mignon Dahlias
Single Dahlias
Peony-Flowered Dahlias
Orchid Dahlias
Pompom Dahlias
Ball Dahlias
Cactus Dahlias
Semi Cactus Dahlias
Decorative Dahlias
Dinnerplate Dahlias
Collarette Dahlias
Waterlily Dahlias
Characteristics of Dahlias
Dahlias have composite flower heads with a central disc and surrounding florets. They come in a vast array of brilliant colors and a wide variety of shapes and textures with single flowering and double flowering groups.There are 14 classification orders based on bloom type and over 20,000 dahlia varieties, with blossoms ranging from two inches to 10+ inches in diameter.
From simple bloom types with rounded flat petals to pom-pom blooms with tightly rolled petals, the eclectic textures and exotic beauty of dahlias are a sight to behold. A stunning cut flower, dahlias have a vase life of 4-7 days.
The dahlia's beauty, size, and vibrant color make it one of the most sought-after ornamental blooms amongst brides, florists, gardeners, and flower lovers.
Fascinating Facts About the Dahlia
- Aztecs used the dahlia plant for treating epilepsy.
- A substance derived from the tubers of dahlias was used as a treatment for diabetes before insulin came about.
- The Dahlia is the national flower of Mexico.
- The dahlia is the official flower of Seattle and San Francisco.
- Aztecs ate dahlia tubers as a food source.
- Dahlia flower petals and the tuber are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked.
- Dahlias were initially classified as a vegetable.
- Though edible by humans, dahlias are toxic to small animals
- Dahlias are the recognized flower for a couple's 14th anniversary.
- There are no true blue or black dahlias; the so-called "black" dahlia is actually a dark burgundy.
Dahlia Symbolism
Dahlias symbolize elegance, creativity, positivity, and growth. It also represents inner strength, likely due to the plant's ability to tolerate harsh conditions. Other general meanings associated with the dahlia is gracefulness, standing out in a crowd, and embracing positive changes. During the Victorian age, dahlias symbolized a strong bond and everlasting love between two people. Dahlias have different symbolism based on their color, too, such as:
Red Dahlia
Power and strength
White Dahlia
Virtue and innocence
Pink Dahlia
Kindness, beauty, and grace
Purple Dahlia
Dignity and royalty
Green Dahlia
Fresh start and positive change
"Black" Dahlia
Betrayal and sadness
Dahlia Occasions
Emanating positive energy and symbolizing "everlasting love," a dahlia bouquet is a beautiful and meaningful gift to give to your special person. Perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, or "just because," the striking beauty and vibrant color of dahlias are sure to make a lasting impression!