Dahlias are annual blooming plants, with mostly tuberous roots. While some have herbaceous stems, others have stems which lignify in the absence of secondary tissue and resprout following winter dormancy, allowing further seasons of growth.[6] As a member of the Asteraceae the flower head is actually a composite (hence the older name Compositae) with both central disc florets and surrounding ray florets. Each floret is a flower in its own right, but is often incorrectly described as a petal, particularly by horticulturists. The modern name Asteraceae refers to the appearance of a star with surrounding rays.

In the language of flowers, Dahlias represent dignity and instability, as well as meaning my gratitude exceeds your care.

CARING FOR DAHLIAS

Choose a size that fits your space and color scheme
Blooms can range from 2-10 inches across and bloom throughout the summer
Propagate from seed or from tubers
Plant in rich soil; offer morning sun and protection from wind
In US Hardiness zones 3-7, dahlia tubers must be dug up and brought inside each winter