Dahlia 

Angela

A Vibrant Statement of Elegance and Diversity

With bold forms and brilliant hues, the Dahlia (Dahlia spp.) is the ultimate statement flower in any bouquet. From dinner plate-sized blooms to intricate pompons, dahlias offer unmatched variety and striking visual appeal. These summer-to-fall favorites are ideal for adding drama, volume, and texture to both rustic and refined floral arrangements.

Bouquets with Dahlias

Looking for vibrant and eye-catching bouquets with dahlias? At Flowers.nl, you'll find unique floral designs that highlight the color, character, and symbolism of dahlias — perfect for weddings, celebrations, or just because.

  • Bold Summer Mix
  • Romantic Dahlia Elegance

Name and Origin

Common Name: Dahlia
Scientific Name: Dahlia spp.

Native to Mexico and Central America, dahlias were first cultivated by the Aztecs and later brought to Europe in the 18th century. The flower was named after Swedish botanist Anders Dahl, and it belongs to the Asteraceae family — the same as sunflowers and daisies.

Description

Dahlias come in a stunning array of forms: cactus, ball, pompon, single, waterlily, and more. Their blooms range in size from compact 5 cm varieties to impressive 25 cm “dinner plate” types. They’re available in nearly every color except true blue, with bi-colored and ombré styles also popular.

Most dahlias are unscented, making them ideal for people sensitive to strong floral perfumes. Their architectural beauty and diversity make them ideal focal flowers in mixed or mono-bouquets.

Season

Dahlias bloom from midsummer through the first frost, peaking between July and October. Though seasonal in nature, they are sometimes available year-round from specialty growers for high-end floral design.

Care Tips

Dahlias can last 5–7 days as cut flowers when properly cared for:

  • Cut stems at a diagonal and place them in lukewarm water immediately.
  • Use flower food and refresh the water every 2 days.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight, drafts, and ripening fruit.
  • Trim stems every few days to maintain hydration.

Because dahlia stems are hollow, they benefit from shorter stem lengths and sturdy vase support.

Flower Combinations

Dahlias pair beautifully with both garden-style and structured designs. Ideal companions include:

  • Roses – for romance and contrast
  • Peonies – to echo fullness and femininity
  • Scabiosa – for wild texture
  • Ranunculus – to enhance richness
  • Eucalyptus – for contrast and freshness

History and Symbolism

Dahlias have long been symbols of strength, elegance, and creativity. In Victorian flower language, they conveyed commitment and dignity. Today, they are often used in wedding bouquets to represent enduring love and inner grace. The dahlia is also the national flower of Mexico.

Common Uses

Dahlias are frequently used in:

  • Wedding bouquets and centerpieces
  • Seasonal and fall floral arrangements
  • Luxury events and editorials
  • Statement home décor pieces

Fun Facts

  • There are over 40 species and thousands of cultivated varieties of dahlias.
  • In the 19th century, dahlia tubers were considered a possible food source.
  • The dahlia symbolizes diversity due to its wide range of forms and colors.

Sources

  • Botanical and horticultural encyclopedias
  • Floral design guides
  • Flowers.nl seasonal product listings