Dahlia
Dahlia rosea
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Pl. 188B — Dahlia rosea
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IOverview
Overview
Dahlia rosea, a member of the Asteraceae family, is an ornamental perennial native to Mexico's central and northeastern regions. This dahlia thrives in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, making it adaptable to various conditions. Standing at 1.5 meters tall, it features distinctive large, showy flowers that add vibrant color to gardens. While primarily cultivated for its ornamental value, Dahlia rosea is also edible, with both its roots and flowers being used in culinary applications. The plant's versatility extends to its use as a dye, making it a valuable addition to gardens and culinary endeavors alike. Dahlia rosea is hardy in zones 8-11 and is found in a wide range of introduced regions, including parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa, highlighting its adaptability and popularity. This dahlia requires full sun and moist soil to flourish, making it a reliable choice for gardeners in suitable climates.
Quick answers
What is Dahlia?
Dahlia rosea, a member of the Asteraceae family, is an ornamental perennial native to Mexico's central and northeastern regions. This dahlia thrives in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil, making it adaptable to various conditions. Standing at 1.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Dahlias thrive in full sun and require moist, well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). They are hardy in zones 8-11 and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. Propagate dahlias through division or stem cuttings. The edible parts include the flowers and roots, making them a versatile addition to both the garden and the kitchen.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Dahlia for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple dahlia planting to experience growing this vibrant flower.
- 1
What you'll need
Dahlia tubers, gardening gloves, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil has warmed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Place tubers 5-10 cm deep in the soil, spaced about 30 cm apart. Water gently after planting.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during this critical period.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels. Fertilize every four weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent blooms to encourage more flowering and remove dead leaves for better plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Planting too deep, overwatering, neglecting fertilization, not providing enough sunlight, and failing to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersRoot
Edible uses: Condiment, Sweetener
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 45 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 45 introducedDistribution across5 continents· 4 native· 45 introduced
Europe12 regions
introduced (12)BulgariaFranceGermanyHungaryIrelandItalyNorwayPortugalRomaniaSpainUkraineUnited Kingdom
Asia8 regions
introduced (8)IndiaKazakhstanMyanmarNepalPakistanTurkmenistanUzbekistanVietnam
Americas9 regions
introduced (9)BelizeColombiaCosta RicaCubaEcuadorGuatemalaHondurasNicaraguaPuerto Rico
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)CameroonEthiopia
Oceania1 region
introduced (1)Fiji
Broader regions
native:Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southwest
introduced:Baltic States, Cook Is., East Himalaya, Leeward Is., Mexico Southeast, Panamá, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Tubuai Is., Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 188be386-5348-4692-b577-082b02354a6e
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