Information on Dahlias

Dahlias are members of the sunflower family.

The dahlia--the national flower of Mexico--originated in Mexico and Guatemala, according to the American Dahlia Society. The flowering plant was discovered by botanists who accompanied the Spanish conquistadors during the 16th century.

History

Dahlias became fashionable in European gardens during the early 19th century but quickly lost popularity. In 1872 a box of dahlia roots sent from Mexico to Holland contained a tuber that grew into a flower with a red bloom. This discovery placed dahlias back on the plant breeder list as the variety was combined with other species to create new hybrids.

Identification

Dahlias are available in many different sizes, shapes and colors. Miniature dahlia blossoms only grow to be about 2 inches in diameter, but giant varieties include flowers that grow to be nearly a foot across. Some types, such as the pompom, create round, globular blossoms, while other kinds have twisted, flat or wavy petals.

Considerations

According to Washington State University Spokane County Extension, dahlias do not produce seeds that have the same characteristics as the parent flower. Because they are hybrids, they will resemble the parents of the plant rather than the plant itself. Use a cutting to create a plant of a particular variety.

References

• The American Dahlia Society: Dahlia Nomenclature and Brief History
• Washington State University Spokane County Extension: Dahlias