The Queen of the Summer Garden

Dahlia pinnata, often simply called "dahlia," is a spectacular flowering plant cherished for its dazzling colors, variety of forms, and long blooming season. Native to Mexico and Central America, this member of the Asteraceae family has become a garden favorite around the world especially in temperate regions where its vibrant presence enlivens summer and fall landscapes.Dahlia pinnata is a tuberous, herbaceous perennial that grows up to 4–5 feet tall, though cultivated varieties range from compact border types to towering dinner-plate dahlias with enormous blooms. The foliage is lush and dark green, providing a lovely backdrop to the star attraction: the flower. These blooms can be simple or complex, with petal shapes varying from daisy-like singles to fully double forms resembling pompoms or cacti.One of the most remarkable traits of dahlia is its diversity. Hybridization has produced thousands of cultivars in every shade imaginable except true blue, with flower sizes ranging from petite 2-inch miniatures to jaw-dropping 12-inch giants.