Dahlia is a genus of tuberous-rooted herbs in the family of Asteraceae, native to Central America and South America. There are 42 species of this perennial plant and each of them come in different colors, sizes and shapes. Dahlia is considered as one of the most popular garden flowers because of its attractive toothed, green leaves and beautiful colorful flowers.
It is unclear where the name actually originated. Many believe that Dahlia was named for the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl.
Dahlia symbolizes elegance, dignity, confidence and beauty.
Dahlia has been used as a medicine since ancient times.
The Aztecs used them to treat epilepsy.
Prior to the discovery of insulin, in America and Europe in the 20th century diabetics were often given a substance called “Atlantic starch” or diabetic sugar, derived from inulin obtained from Dahlia tubers.
In 1913, the city officials of Seattle declared the Dahlia to be its official flower. It is also the official flower of San Francisco.
Dahlia is the national flower of Mexico.
In the 19th century a London newspaper offered 1 pound to the breeder who would produce a blue Dahlia. Furthermore, the Caledonia Horticultural Society of Edinburgh offered a cash prize of 2000 pounds to whoever produced a blue Dahlia.
Up to today, all attempts to produce blue Dahlia have resulted only in several near blue cultivars.
Bulbs, Perennials
Dahlias bloom in all colors, except blue.
