Dahlias are flamboyant showstoppers that drama to any garden or hand bouquet. No wonder flower lovers anticipate its blooming season in late summer to fall. These vibrant perennials boast a breathtaking array of colors, shapes, and sizes, from delicate single petals to opulent, dinner plate-sized blooms. With their bold presence and long-lasting beauty, dahlias are a favorite among florists and gardeners alike. Whether you prefer classic elegance or modern flair, there's a dahlia variety to suit every taste, making them a captivating choice for any floral arrangement.
Ready to fall in love more with dahlia season? Then, get ready to have your mind blown by these five fascinating facts about dahlias.
A Rainbow of Possibilities Except Blue!
Dahlias come in a dazzling array of colors – from fiery reds, oranges, and yellows to soft pinks, purples, and even dramatic black hues. It's a true kaleidoscope of colors. But there's one color that remains elusive; blue. This is because dahlias don’t have the genes to produce the enzyme (F3 '5'H) which is essential for making the blue pigment in flowers. Despite countless attempts by breeders, a genuine blue dahlia has yet to emerge. This botanical mystery only adds to the allure of these captivating flowers.
From Aztec Staple to Garden Royalty
Dahlias have a rich history. In their native Mexico, the Aztecs cultivated them not just for their beauty but also as a food source for animals and as a medicinal plant. Across the pond, dahlias charmed European royalties. Queen Victoria and Marie Antoinette were both known for their adoration of dahlias, solidifying their status as coveted garden treasures.
A Vegetable in Disguise
Before their beauty as a flower was fully appreciated, dahlias were once considered vegetables. When Spanish explorers first discovered dahlias in Mexico, they were initially drawn to the edible tubers that were said to have a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. While not as common now, certain dahlia varieties still have edible tubers that adventurous gardeners can enjoy.
Nature's Chameleons
Dahlias are the ultimate shape-shifters of the flower world. With over 42 species and thousands of cultivars, they offer an astounding variety of forms and sizes. From the dinner-plate-sized blooms of the 'Café au Lait,' which can reach a foot in diameter, to the delicate, spiky pompoms of the 'Wizard of Oz,' there's a dahlia to suit every taste and garden style. This incredible diversity is a testament to the dahlia's adaptability and its ability to capture the imagination of gardeners worldwide.
A Symbol of Elegance and Gratitude
Other than their aesthetic appeal and historical significance, dahlias hold beautiful flower meanings. They represent elegance, inner strength, and creativity. In the Victorian language of flowers, dahlias conveyed messages of lasting commitment and a bond that grew stronger over time. Today, dahlias are often given as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation, making them a thoughtful and meaningful addition to floral arrangements for special occasions.
Dahlia Flower Delivery in LA and OC
Indulge in the exquisite beauty of dahlias. With Orchid Republic Floral Boutique, not only will you get breathtaking dahlia floral arrangements but also a seamless flower shopping experience. Orchid Republic Floral Boutique is a local flower shop with physical stores in Sherman Oaks and Santa Monica. Shop in-store or online! Enjoy your dahlias right away with our convenient same-day flower delivery service in Los Angeles and Orange County.
Check out our Dahlia collection today!
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