With their vibrant colors and stunning flower heads, dahlias make a striking addition to any landscape. As a late summer and fall bloomer, they extend the flowering season well into autumn. These are also one of the most popular and diverse flowering plants, with thousands of cultivars in a stunning array of colors, shapes, and sizes. But where did these beautiful blooms come from, and what do they represent?
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Origin of Dahlia Flower
Dahlias originate from Mexico and Central America. The first recorded species were identified in the Valley of Mexico in the 1500s. These early dahlias grew as small shrubs with only one or two flower heads in shades of red, yellow, and orange.
Botanists first brought dahlia seeds and tubers to Madrid in 1784. From there they quickly spread to the rest of Europe. New hybrids were rapidly developed, increasing the size, color range, and number of petals per flower.
Today over 40 species and 20,000+ cultivars of dahlia exist. They come in just about every color except blue. Their flowers are present in various forms ranging from cute pom pom shapes to giant “dinner plate” blooms over 12 inches across!
Dahlia Flower Meaning and Symbolism
Beyond their visual appeal, dahlias carry a rich symbolic meaning as well.
In the language of flowers, most dahlias convey a sentiment of:
- Commitment
- Elegance and dignity
- Staying kind despite challenges
- Standing out from the crowd
This symbolic association stems from dahlias’ tubers surviving each winter only to return in the spring, like a commitment to reappear when the timing is right.
Summer Flowers
Fall Flowers
Winter Flowers
Dahlias’ vibrant beauty and variety of flower forms also link them to diversity, individuality, and self-expression.
The color black Dahlia specifically symbolizes betrayal and dishonesty. This stems from the infamous 1940s murder of an aspiring actress who went by the nickname “The Black Dahlia.” Her case became one of Hollywood’s most legendary unsolved crimes.
Dahlia Flower Care and Cultivation
Raising thriving Dahlias is profoundly satisfying. However, success depends on understanding these plants’ preferences.
Here are the top tips for growing monumental dahlia blooms:
Soil Prep
Improve native soil by mixing nutrient-rich compost or well-rotted manure before planting tubers. Dahlias thrive on loose, well-drained earth.
Sun Exposure
Situate dahlias where they will bask in plentiful sunlight for at least six hours daily. Filtered light from high trees can alternatively work.
Watering
Soak the dahlia soil consistently so it’s moist but not saturated. Drooping leaves often indicate under-watering. Prevent fungal issues by keeping the foliage dry.
Staking
Insert tall stakes when shoots emerge to support top-heavy mature plants. Use soft plant ties to secure stems loosely in place as blooms grow.
Deadheading
Removing spent flowers not only keeps plants beautified. It also promotes extended bloom time from midsummer through autumn frost.
Dahlia Flower Benefits and Uses
Beyond their feel-good vibes, dahlias offer practical advantages too:
Cut Flowers
With proper post-harvest care, dahlia bouquets persist for seven days looking lovely. Mix varieties for lively texture and pops of color.
Edible Tubers
Originally cultivated for food, dahlia tubers boast a sweet, nutty flavor. Their crunch works great in stir fries or as chips. However, eat tubers in moderation as they contain bitter compounds.
Natural Dye
Dahlia flowers produce a stunning fuchsia-hued dye perfect for coloring fabric, yarn, and Easter eggs. Certain purple varieties like Karma Choc yield a rich chocolate brown dye.
The Perfect Flower Bouquet is Waiting for You at Snapblooms. Order Now!
Today, they are appreciated for their vast variety and late-summer blooms that add vibrant color to any garden. Get gorgeous dahlias delivered – visit Snapblooms today to order fresh-cut dahlias and make every day beautiful.
