A seasonal showstopper that comes in a variety of forms and every colour imaginable: this is the lowdown on the humble dahlia.
There’s something undeniably special about dahlias. From their intricate petals and their bold shapes, to the endless variety of colours, these late-summer flowers always have a way of stealing the show, whether it’s in your garden or in a bouquet.
Consider them to be the kind of stem that you can spot across a crowded room and fall instantly in love with. They’re full of character and elegance and always able to bring the drama whenever it’s needed – but if there’s one thing that’s always worth knowing about dahlias, it’s that they’re not just pretty to look at.
As well as being incredibly striking, these flowers also have a rich history and a whole host of symbolic meaning that might surprise you. So whether you’re already a fully fledged dahlia devotee, or you’re only just discovering them for the first time, we’ve pulled together everything we think you need to know about these truly stunning flowers – including a quick start guide that’ll help you care for cut stems in a bouquet.
Dahlias span every colour of the rainbow (almost)
One of our favourite things about dahlia is their sheer variety. Available in almost every shade imaginable – from soft pastels, including blush pink and this season’s favourite butter yellow, through to bold jewel tones of crimson, violet and orange. There are even some varieties that have ombre petals or stunning stripes – which are ideal for the indecisive amongst us.
Their versatility makes them a dream for florists and keen gardeners alike, and whether you’re creating a romantic pastel bouquet or a vibrant, fiery arrangement, we guarantee there’s a dahlia to fit your needs. Plus, their dramatic look means they’re often used as a focal point in a bouquet. They can then be paired with a few other simpler blooms and some greenery, which can help support the bold presence of a dahlia.
Dahlias have both history and heritage
Not just a modern favourite, dahlias have a rich heritage that’s fascinating to learn about. Originally native to Mexico and central America, dahlias were valued by the Aztecs who are said to have eaten them, as well as using them as both medicine and water pipes – which comes thanks to their hollow stems.
Dahlias arrived in Europe in the late 18th century, where they quickly became popular amongst plant lovers and gardeners because of their unusual appearance and the sheer variety available. Today, the dahlia is Mexico’s national flower, plus you’ll find them across the world at different flower shows and fairs, and there’s even entire competitions dedicated to growing the biggest, brightest and most beautiful varieties.
Dahlias are a symbol of strength and elegance
Flowers often carry lots of different hidden meanings, and dahlias are no exception. Most commonly associated with inner strength and creativity, making them a thoughtful choice for the times you might want to celebrate somebody’s resilience or personal accomplishments and achievements. And, in the Victorian language of flowers, dahlias symbolise lasting commitment, which is why you’ll often find them used in both wedding and anniversary bouquets.
So whether you’re celebrating an important milestone, supporting a loved one, or want to send a heartfelt message, dahlias are more than just eye-catching – they’re full of sentiment, too.
Dahlias come in a variety of shapes and sizes
When you think of dahlias, chances are a big, fluffy bloom springs immediately to mind. But the truth is, they come in a huge range of shapes and sizes. From small, pom-pom dahlias that have tightly packed petals which form perfect spheres, right through to bigger-than-a-dinner-plate dahlias that can grow up to 30cm across – which you have to see to believe.
There’s also cactus dahlias that have spiky petals, collarette dahlias with contrasting colours, and orchid dahlias which are star-like, almost gothic-looking flowers. Each variety comes with its own charm, making them ideal for experimenting with different looks – plus, the sheer diversity means that dahlias suit almost any style of bouquet, from soft and romantic to bold and contemporary. Consider it the suits-all flower that’s a favourite of many for good reason.
Dahlias are seasonal showstoppers
You’ll usually find dahlias at their best from mid-summer through to the first autumn frost, a trait that makes them one of the highlights of late-summer bouquets thanks to their uncanny ability to add both richness and drama, just as many other flowers are beginning to fade.
Since they’re not available year-round, it’s important to enjoy them while you can. The inclusion of dahlias in a bouquet also feels extra special when they do appear – after all, their short season of availability makes them feel like a bit of a treat and something to look forward to. That’s also the reason why you’ll find some florists love to hero them in luxury arrangements during their peak – which is, crucially, when they’re at their most fresh and their most striking.
Dahlias are easier than you think to grow
While it’s not rare to see a dahlia make an appearance in a bouquet, they’re also a really popular flower in gardens. The reason why? They’re actually a lot easier to grow than you might initially think, especially once you get the hang of them. Dahlias grow from tubers – which are a bit like bulbs – and are best planted in early spring, after the last frost. Then, with plenty of sun, water and some TLC, they’ll reward you with weeks of stunning blooms.
However, they really are the gift that keeps on giving because they flower all season long, and the more you cut them, the more they bloom – so if you need an excuse to ensure you always have fresh flowers indoors, consider the dahlia to be it. And the even better news is that, with proper care, they can last over a week in a vase.
How to care for dahlias in a bouquet
While dahlias may look dramatic, looking after them is surprisingly simple. In order to get the most out of your flowers, take note of the following tips:
- Trim the stems at a sharp angle before putting them in water – it helps them drink more easily
- Change the water every few days to keep it fresh and free of any bacteria
- Dahlias love a boost of nutrients, so use flower food if you have it
- Keep them cool – avoid having them in direct sunlight or too close to a radiator if you can
- Remove any wilted petals and leaves to keep your bouquet looking fresh
Why we love dahlias
From their rich history to their bold beauty, dahlias are flowers that truly bring something special to any bouquet. They’re versatile, meaningful and will always make a statement – whether they’re in soft peach tones, fiery reds or classic whites and creams. So next time you’re shopping for something unique and full of personality, keep an eye out for dahlias; they’re impossible not to love.
