Dahlia
Dahlia pinnata
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Dahlia pinnata, often referred to as "garden dahlia" originates from Mexico where it was both grown and gathered as food by the Aztecs. Many groups throughout Mexico enjoyed dahlias as food from the Tarahumara in the north, the Purépecha and Nahuatl in central Mexico, to the Mixteco, Zapoteco and Mayan in the south. Dahlias belong to the Asteraceae family and are known for their vibrant, large flowers that come in a variety of colors. It is a perennial herbaceous plant with a rhizome and tuberous roots. Dahlias were taken to Europe in the late 1700's as a medicinal plant and a source of food. The Spaniards learned that the Mexicans used the tubers as a source of food and herbal remedies to fight external skin, eye and ear infections. The French learned from the Spaniards and they also consumed dahlias; however, when crops such as potato became popular, the desire for dahlia tubers decreased. The petals can be consumed in salads for a sharp, spicy flavor. The tubers must be cooked before consuming.
Seed Life Cycle
In warm climates, this is a perennial. Annuals in colder climates.
Colours
These flowers come in a variety of colors including red, pink, purple, white, yellow, and orange.
Height
On average, these flowers grow 70cm to 120cm (30" to 50") tall.
Health Benefits
Dye
Dahlias produce vibrant yellows, gold, oranges, and deep greens. Darker red varieties yield earthy greens or browns.
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