Bloom Spotlight: Dahlias

The Dahlia. This tubular budding beauty is the pop of color in so many bouquets. Though it rarely gets the attention it deserves, dahlias are more than just decoration and in the world of horticulture, relatively new to the cultivation game. In this post, we’ll discuss the history of the dahlia, it’s many uses, and what occasions to give these gorgeous blooms.

Everything There Is to Know About Dahlias

The History of the Dahlia

Originating in the heart of Central America, Dalia pinnata is the national flower of the country of Mexico. First record of this dates back to the early 1600s. The first dahlias were shipped to Europe by Spanish settlers in southern Mexico. Early on, these flowers weren’t used for decoration but rather edible medication. Long before the discovery of insulin the tubers of the Dahlia were used to support proper blood sugar levels. Many have said the tubers taste similar to red radish’s. In the early 17th Century Europeans used the pedals as moisturizer or in salves for skin rashes. Because of its usefulness, it wasn’t recorded as decoration till later.

Dahlia Varieties

We currently know of 30 different species and well above 20,000 cultivars of Dahlias with new creations appearing all the time. The categories are organized based on the size and pattern of the flowers but also the resemblance to similar blooms. The Dahlia can mimic water lilies and cactus blooms.

Because of its chameleon-like ability to mimic other flowers, green thumbs across the world have crossbred gnomes to create spectacular new colors that would make a rainbow blush. Though the Dahlia has hundreds of colors in it’s palette, there has never been a blue or black dahlia. Though the book and film that shares its name would have you believe otherwise. Some horticulturalists got close in the early 20th century, but true blue has never been achieved. Those who claim to have bred a black dahlia in reality simply made a dark purple.

Dahlias in Decoration

Perhaps the most significant use of dahlias in decoration originated in the Victorian age. Used in wedding ceremonies they represented commitment and everlasting love. Their intricate design has also been said to represent inner fortitude and creation. This is also why we see them in graduation bouquets and congratulatory celebrations. Because of their color and variety many landscapers have dubbed them “the most requested flower” for home gardens. Also because of its high fructose content, dahlias are sometimes used as edible flowers. In fact its namesake, Swedish botanist Andres Dahl cataloged it as a vegetable.

The Edible Flower

Do you have guests coming over you need to impress? Surprise them with a pop of color in your spring salad by sprinkling dahlia pedals. They are also a decoration, albeit an edible one, on tarts, cakes and pastries. Most people wouldn’t call them sweet, but rather a tart floral zest that balances other flavors. Tired of that same old charcuterie board? Spruce it up with a dahlia bloom. That extra attention to detail will impress your guests and make for the perfect chance to explain your knowledge of dahlias.

When to Give Dahlias

The Dahlia is a stand out flower. If you are looking to stand out, these large budding flowers last a long time and go well with most occasions. Because of their color versatility, when attending a wedding bring a bouquet of dahlias that pairs nicely with the wedding’s color scheme. Also when trying to choose a flower by event, the Dahlia paid perfectly to celebrate graduations. It’s pedals resemble tiny scrolls and are easy to match with school colors. Dahlias plant easily as well, making them perfect for house warming presents. Blooms can grow in soil up to 1 foot in diameter making any backyard or porch vibrant. Dahlias also present well on anniversaries. Their history with romance demonstrates you, the givers, knowledge of the era of enlightenment. A truly unique romantic bouquet dazzles with Dahlias.

Dahlias: The Most Versatile Flower

For nearly 400 years this decadent demonstration of architectural beauty and horticultural excellence has impressed people the world over. Cities like Seattle and San Francisco have named the Dahlia the official flower. It bewildered Victorian play rights and poets. A strong and resilient bud, these flowers will impress anyone who is lucky enough to receive them in celebration or condolence. The Dahlia will stand out in any place you put them, which is perhaps why they are everywhere.