Last Updated on April 30, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
If you’re looking for a beautiful flower to brighten up your day, look no further than the dahlia. Dahlias come in all shapes and sizes, with colors that range from deep reds to vibrant pinks.
In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of dahlias and their characteristics. We’ll also provide tips on how to care for these flowers so you can enjoy them for many weeks!
Related: 350+ Different Types Of Flowers With Names, Meaning and Pictures (Flower Categories)
How many different types of dahlias are there?
There are actually more than 42,000 different types of dahlias! Dahlias come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. You can find them in just about any color except for blue. The most popular colors are pink, white, yellow, and red.
Dahlias also come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. The most popular shapes are cactus, ball, and pompon. Dahlias can range in size from two inches to four feet in diameter!
How to identify dahlias
Dahlias are a type of flower that come in many different colors, shapes, and sizes. They are native to Mexico and Central America, and were introduced to Europe in the early 1800s. Dahlias are popular garden plants, and many people grow them for their beautiful flowers.
There are several things you can look for when trying to identify a dahlia. First, look at the shape of the flower. Dahlias can have either single or double flowers, and they come in a variety of shapes including cactus, ball, pompom, and waterlily. The petals can be smooth or ruffled, and the flowers can be any color except blue.
Another way to identify a dahlia is by looking at the leaves. Dahlia leaves are dark green and have a hairy or downy surface. They are arranged in opposite pairs on the stem, and each leaf has a stalk (petiole) that is attached to the stem. The leaves can be either simple or compound, depending on the variety of dahlia.
You can also identify a dahlia by its roots. Dahlias have thick, fleshy roots that are typically white or light brown in color. They are tuberous roots, which means they store food for the plant and can be replanted to grow new plants.
Related: Dahlia Flower Meaning and Symbolism
Types Of Dahlias
Cactus and Semi-Cactus Dahlias.
They are two different types of dahlias with very different flowers. The cactus dahlia has a flattened flower with spiky petals, while the semi-cactus dahlia has a more traditional flower shape with softer petals. Both types of dahlias are beautiful, and each has its own unique charm.
If you’re looking for a dahlia that is sure to stand out, then the cactus dahlia is the perfect choice. The spiky petals of this type of dahlia are sure to make a statement in any garden. Semi-cactus dahlias are a great option if you prefer a more traditional flower shape. These dahlias have softer petals that provide a beautiful contrast to the spiky petals of the cactus dahlia.
1. Dahlia ‘Doris Day’.
This is a tuberous, herbaceous perennial that grows to a height of 24-36”. The foliage is dark green and the flowers are pink with yellow centers. Dahlia ‘Doris Day’ is a great plant for borders, containers, and cutting gardens.
This variety was introduced in 1966 by the renowned English nurseryman, Ernest Ball. It is named after the American actress and singer, Doris Day.
2. Dahlia ‘Pianella’.
A new addition to the dahlia world, this hybrid was developed by crossing two existing varieties: ‘Fascination’ and ‘Bishop of Llandaff’. The result is a plant with all the best features of its parents: large, showy flowers in a deep red hue, set against rich green foliage.
The plant is compact and bushy, with a long flowering season that extends from early summer right through to the first frosts.
This dahlia is perfect for adding a splash of color to borders, beds, and containers. Its strong stems make it ideal for cutting, so you can enjoy its beauty indoors as well as out. Dahlia ‘Pianella’ is a tuberous perennial that will come back year after year, getting better and better with age.
3. Dahlia ‘Frigoulet’.
This is one of the most popular varieties of dahlias, and it’s easy to see why. The blooms are a deep, rich red color with a yellow center. They’re perfect for adding a splash of color to any garden or bouquet.
Dahlia ‘Frigoulet’ is a tuberous plant, which means it stores its energy in underground bulbs. This makes it a great choice for gardeners in colder climates, as the plants can be dug up and brought indoors over winter.
Single Dahlias.
They’re simple, beautiful, and perfect for summer. I can’t get enough of them!
If you’re looking for a flower that is both elegant and easy to care for, look no further than the single dahlia. These lovely blooms come in a variety of colors and sizes, making them perfect for any garden or home.
4. Dahlia ‘Magenta Star’.
A great addition to any garden, this dahlia is perfect for cut flowers. With its large, magenta blooms, it’s sure to add a splash of color to any arrangement.
This dahlia grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It’s also relatively drought tolerant, so it’s a great choice for gardens in hot, dry climates.
5. Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’.
Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’ is a variety of Dahlia that produces beautiful blooms in a range of colors.
The colors of the blooms can include white, pink, red, and purple.
The flowers of Dahlia ‘Mystic Illusion’ are large and full, making them perfect for cutting and adding to bouquets.
This dahlia is a must-have for any flower lover! Its delicate petals and stunning colors are sure to make it a favorite in your garden.
6. Dahlia ‘Waltzing Mathilda’.
Dahlia ‘Waltzing Mathilda’ is a stunning dahlia with large, dark green leaves and beautiful, deep red flowers. The flowers of Dahlia ‘Waltzing Mathilda’ are up to 12 cm in diameter and have a wonderful fragrance. This dahlia is perfect for adding colour and scent to your garden.
Pompon Dahlias.
They are one of the oldest Dahlia species, and have been around since the 16th century. Pompon Dahlias are native to Mexico, and were first brought to Europe by Spanish missionaries.
The name “Dahlia” comes from Anders Dahl, a Swedish botanist who was one of the first to study these flowers.
7. Dahlia ‘Moor Place’.
Dahlia ‘Moor Place’’ is a wonderful plant that can bring beauty to any garden.
The blooms are a deep red color and they have a very unique shape.
This plant does best in full sun and well-drained soil.
It is important to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage new growth.
Dahlia ‘Moor Place’ is a great plant for anyone who wants to add some beauty to their garden.
8. Dahlia ‘Plum Surprise’.
Dahlia ‘Plum Surprise’’ is a variety of dahlia that produces blooms in a deep plum color. The flowers are large and full, with ruffled petals. This variety is sure to add some drama to your garden!
9. Dahlia ‘Franz Kafka’.
Dahlia ‘Franz Kafka’’ is a cultivar of the Dahlia genus in the family Asteraceae.
It was named after the writer Franz Kafka.
The cultivar was created by crossing two other Dahlia cultivars, ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ and ‘Dahlia pinnata’.
It was first introduced to the public in 2006.
The plant grows to a height of about 60-90 cm (24-36 inches).
The flowers are a deep reddish color with black spots.
They bloom from July to September.
Ball Dahlias.
They are one of the most popular varieties of dahlias, and for good reason. Ball dahlias have a beautiful, full bloom that is perfect for cutting and adding to bouquets. They come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, and purple.
10. Dahlia ‘Aurora’s Kiss’.
Dahlia ‘Aurora’s Kiss’’ is a cultivar of the Dahlia genus in the family Asteraceae.
The plant was created by hybridizing two species of Dahlia, and was introduced to the public in 2009.
It is a tender perennial that is typically grown as an annual in most climates.
Dahlia ‘Aurora’s Kiss’ grows to a height of 24-36 inches and has double flowers that are pink with purple streaks.
The plant blooms from mid-summer to fall, and is a good choice for cut flowers.
Dahlia ‘Aurora’s Kiss’ is best grown in full sun and well-drained soil.
11. Dahlia ‘Jomanda’.
Dahlia ‘Jomanda’’ is a stunning Dahlia that will add a touch of elegance to any garden. Its large, double blooms are a deep red color with hints of purple. The Dahlia ‘Jomanda’ is a must-have for any flower lover.
This Dahlia is native to Mexico and was first introduced to Europe in the early 1800s. Dahlias were initially grown as ornamental plants, but they have since become popular garden flowers.
Dahlia ‘Jomanda’ is a beautiful addition to any garden and is sure to add a touch of elegance.
12. Dahlia ‘Cornell’.
Dahlia ‘Cornell’’ is a hybrid cross between two species of Dahlia, Dahlia coccinea and Dahlia pinnata. It was bred by the Cornell University Agricultural Experiment Station in Ithaca, New York, United States.
Dahlia ‘Cornell’ is a tender perennial that grows to a height of 30-36 inches (75-90 cm). The plant has dark green leaves and produces showy, orange-red flowers that are about four inches (ten cm) in diameter.
The blooms of Dahlia ‘Cornell’ appear from midsummer to fall. The flowers are excellent for cutting and can be used in bouquets or dried for arrangements.
This Dahlia is best grown in full sun and moist, well-drained soil. It is not tolerant of drought or wet conditions. Dahlia ‘Cornell’ can be propagated by division in spring or fall.
Decorative Dahlias.
Decorative dahlias come in many colors, sizes, and shapes.
Dahlias are native to Mexico and Central America.
They were introduced to Europe in the 18th century.
Dahlias are grown as ornamental plants.
The flowers are used for cutting and dried flower arrangements.
Dahlias grow best in full sun and well-drained soil.
They should be watered regularly.
To encourage blooming, use a fertilizer high in phosphorus.
Pinching back the tips of the plant will also encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Decorative dahlias can be propagated by division or from seed.
13. Dahlia ‘Arabian Night’.
Dahlia ‘Arabian Night’’ is a beautiful black dahlia with purple highlights. It is a very striking flower and makes a great addition to any garden. Dahlia ‘Arabian Night’ is also a very popular cut flower and can be found in many florists.
14. Dahlia ‘Rothesay Reveller’.
Dahlia ‘Rothesay Reveller’’ is a stunning dahlia with large, fully double, rich purple flowers. The blooms are produced on strong stems from mid-summer to late autumn.
This dahlia is perfect for adding colour and interest to borders and containers. It also makes an excellent cut flower.
15. Dahlia ‘Kelvin Floodlight’.
Dahlia ‘Kelvin Floodlight’’ is a variety of dahlia that is known for its large, showy flowers. The blooms of this plant are typically a deep red color, and they can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. Dahlia ‘Kelvin Floodlight’ is an annual plant, meaning it will only bloom for one season.
Mignon Dahlias.
Mignon Dahlia is a type of Dahlia that is characterized by its small flowers. It is a popular choice for gardens and bouquets. The Mignon Dahlia was created in France in the early 1800s.
Mignon Dahlias are available in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, purple, red, and yellow.
16. Dahlia ‘Scura’.
Dahlia ‘Scura’’ is a dark, dramatic dahlia with black petals and a deep red center. This unique flower is sure to make a statement in any garden.
Dahlia ‘Scura’ is best grown in full sun and well-drained soil. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant that does not require much fertilizer or water.
Dahlia ‘Scura’ is a great choice for gardeners who are looking for something different. This beautiful flower is sure to add interest to any garden.
17. Dahlia ‘G.F. Hemerik’.
Dahlia ‘G.F. Hemerik’’ is a beautiful Dahlia that was introduced in 2004 by G.F. Hemerik of the Netherlands. It has large, deep red flowers with yellow stamens that are borne on strong, upright stems. The foliage is dark green and glossy.
This Dahlia grows to a height of 120cm (48in) and a spread of 60cm (24in).
Dahlia ‘G.F. Hemerik’ is best grown in full sun in a well-drained soil. It is an excellent cut flower and makes a good addition to the summer border.
18. Dahlia ‘Sunshine’.
Dahlia ‘Sunshine’’ is a beautiful yellow dahlia that will brighten up any garden. It’s a great plant for cutting, so be sure to deadhead it regularly to keep the blooms coming.
This variety grows to about 36 inches tall and 24 inches wide, so it’s a good size for most gardens. Dahlias prefer full sun, but will tolerate some light shade.
Dahlias are relatively easy to grow and make great cut flowers. If you’re looking for a cheerful addition to your garden, Dahlia ‘Sunshine’ is a great choice!
Anemone Dahlias.
Anemone Dahlia is a genus of about 30 species of tuberous rooted herbaceous perennial plants in the family Asteraceae. The Anemone Dahlia is endemic to Mexico and Central America. The name “Anemone” comes from the Greek word anemos, meaning “wind”.
The Anemone Dahlia is a popular garden plant, grown for its showy flowers which bloom in summer and autumn. The flowers come in a wide range of colors, including white, pink, purple, red and yellow.
The Anemone Dahlia is a relatively easy plant to grow, and can be propagated by division or seed. They prefer a sunny position in well-drained soil.
19. Dahlia ‘Purpinka’.
A cross between ‘Gallery Art Deco’ and ‘Dalina Fuego’, this dahlia is a real stunner! The deep purple flowers are up to 12 cm in diameter and have a lovely ruffled appearance. They make an excellent cut flower, lasting up to two weeks in a vase.
20. Dahlia ‘Totally Tangerine’
Dahlia ‘Totally Tangerine’ is a beautiful orange dahlia that will add a splash of color to your garden. This dahlia is easy to grow and is perfect for adding to cut flower arrangements.
21. Dahlia ‘Boogie Woogie’.
Dahlia ‘Boogie Woogie’’ is a hybrid of Dahlia pinnata and Dahlia coccinea. It was bred by Jelitto Perennial Seeds in Germany. The plant grows to about 80 cm (31 in) tall and has deep magenta flowers with ruffled petals.
This dahlia is perfect for adding a pop of color to summer gardens. It blooms from June until September and is best planted in full sun.
Peony Dahlias.
Peony Dahlia is a hybrid between two species of dahlias, the Dahlia pinnata and the Dahlia coccinea. The plant was created in 1872 by French horticulturist Victor Lemoine.
The flowers of the Peony Dahlia are large and have a diameter of about 20 cm. They are double flowers with petals that are arranged in a spiral. The color of the flowers can be white, pink, or red.
The plant grows to a height of about 60 cm and blooms from July to September.
22. Dahlia ‘Fascination’.
Dahlia ‘Fascination’’ is a hybrid cultivar of the Dahlia genus, bred by crossing two closely related species Dahlia pinnata and Dahlia rosea.
The plant was introduced to Europe in 1872 by the German botanist and horticulturist Georg Arends (1839-1922).
Dahlia ‘Fascination’ is a herbaceous perennial that grows to a height of 0.75-0.95 m (30-38 in) and a width of 0.45-0.60 m (18-24 in).
The plant has green leaves with jagged edges, and the flowers are borne on long, thin stems.
23. Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’.
Dahlia ‘Bishop of Llandaff’’ is a Dahlia that was bred by the Victorians. It is a very old variety of Dahlia, and it is named after the Bishop of Llandaff, who was one of the most famous Victorian breeders of Dahlias.
The ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ is a very large, dark red Dahlia, with petals that are almost black. It is a very striking Dahlia, and it is one of the most popular varieties of Dahlia.
The ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ is a very easy Dahlia to grow, and it is very tolerant of poor soil. It is also a very good cut flower, and it will last for a long time in a vase.
24. Dahlia ‘Bishop of Oxford’.
Dahlia ‘Bishop of Oxford’’ is a beautiful, dark red dahlia with large blooms. It is a great addition to any garden, and makes an excellent cut flower.
Collarette Dahlias.
Collarette Dahlia blossoms are unique in that they have a ring of small florets around the center, which resembles a collar or ruffle.
These flowers come in a wide range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, red, and purple.
Collarette Dahlias typically grow to be about two feet tall and can bloom from July to October.
25. Dahlia ‘Teesbrooke Audrey’.
Dahlia ‘Teesbrooke Audrey’’ is a beautiful Dahlia that was grown by the Teesbrooke nursery in England. It has large, double flowers that are a deep pink color with white tips. The plant grows to be about 24 inches tall and 18 inches wide.
26. Dahlia ‘Pooh’.
Dahlia ‘Pooh’’ is a popular variety of dahlia.
The flowers are a deep red color with yellow tips.
Dahlias are native to Mexico and were first introduced to Europe in the 18th century.
There are over 30 species of dahlia, and hundreds of different varieties.
Dahlias come in a wide range of colors, including red, pink, purple, white, and yellow.
Dahlias are a popular choice for gardens and bouquets.
The flowers are typically blooming from summer to fall.
27. Dahlia ‘Night Butterfly’.
Dahlia ‘Night Butterfly’’ is a hybrid of two species of Dahlia, D. coccinea and D. pinnata. The plant was created by Dr. Ernst Berndt, a German botanist, in 1935. It was introduced into the United States by the Ball Seed Company in 1936.
The plant grows to a height of 24-36 inches (60-90 cm). The leaves are green and lanceolate. The flowers are dark purple with a white center. They bloom from June to September.
Dahlia ‘Night Butterfly’ is a beautiful plant that is easy to grow. It does well in full sun or partial shade. It prefers well-drained soil. The plant is tolerant of heat and humidity. It is not tolerant of frost.
Dahlia ‘Night Butterfly’ is a beautiful addition to any garden. Try it in a border, mass planting, or as an accent plant. It also makes a great cut flower.
Orchid Dahlias.
They have long been a favorite of gardeners and flower arrangers alike. The delicate flowers and intricate petals of the orchid dahlia make it a truly unique variety.
Sadly, orchid dahlias are not widely available commercially. However, with a little patience and perseverance, you can grow your own.
28. Dahlia ‘Honka Red’.
Dahlia ‘Honka Red’ is a hybrid between Dahlia pinnata and Dahlia coccinea, two species native to Mexico. The plant was bred by Finnish dahlia enthusiast Toivo Honkala. It was introduced into cultivation in the United States in 1963 by American dahlia grower John W. MacMillan.
The plant grows to a height of about 90 cm (36 in). The flowers are up to 15 cm (about six inches) across, and are borne on long, thin stems. They have a deep red color with yellow highlights. The petals are fringed and have a ruffled appearance.
29. Dahlia ‘Fragile’.
Dahlia ‘Fragile’’ is a beautiful, delicate flower that is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any garden. The flowers are a gentle pink colour and have a very delicate petal structure. They are also very fragrant, making them a popular choice for cut flowers.
Dahlia ‘Fragile’ is best grown in full sun in well-drained soil. It is a relatively low maintenance plant and is also drought tolerant. However, it is important to deadhead the flowers regularly to encourage further blooming.
30. Dahlia ‘Honka Surprise‘
Dahlia ‘Honka Surprise‘ is a Dahlia that was created by Finnish dahlia grower, Esa Honkakoski. It is a white dahlia with red streaks running through the petals. The ‘Honka Surprise‘ was introduced in 2001 and has become a popular choice for gardens and floral arrangements.
Waterlily Dahlias.
Waterlily Dahlia flowers are large and have a flattened shape with smooth petals that may be notched or ruffled. They come in a wide range of colors including white, yellow, pink, red, purple, and bi-colors. The center of the flower is filled with many small florets.
Waterlily Dahlias grow best in full sun and well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant once established. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming.
31. Dahlia ‘Caballero’.
Dahlia ‘Caballero’’ is a beautiful deep red Dahlia with ruffled petals. It is an heirloom variety that was introduced in 1945 by the Caballero Brothers of Spain.
This stunning Dahlia grows to a height of 24-36 inches and blooms from July to September. Plant ‘Caballero’ in full sun in well-drained soil. Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering. Dahlia ‘Caballero’ is a great addition to any summer garden!
32. Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’.
Dahlia ‘Karma Choc’’ is a stunning new addition to the Karma series. The deep chocolate brown petals have an almost black center, making it one of the darkest dahlias available.
This extremely versatile variety looks great in mass plantings, as well as in mixed borders and containers. It’s also a wonderful cut flower, with long-lasting blooms.
33. Dahlia ‘Pearl of Heemstede’.
Dahlia ‘Pearl of Heemstede’’ is a white dahlia with a yellow center. It is a hybrid of ‘Bishop of Llandaff’ and was introduced by the Dutch company, Kees van der Weijden in 2006.
Dahlia ‘Pearl of Heemstede’ grows to a height of 50-60 cm (20-24 in) and a width of 30-40 cm (12-16 in).
The plant has dark green leaves and blooms from June to September.
The flowers are about 12 cm (five inches) in diameter.
Dahlia ‘Pearl of Heemstede’ is best suited for growing in USDA hardiness zones seven through ten.
It is a good choice for borders, containers, or cut flowers.
Dahlia ‘Pearl of Heemstede’ prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
It is drought tolerant and does not require much fertilizer.
FAQs
Which dahlias are most hardy?
I’m often asked this question, and it’s a difficult one to answer. There are so many variables to consider! But in general, I would say that the following dahlias are among the most hardy:
– ‘Bishop of Llandaff’
– ‘Cafe au Lait’
– ‘Dalmatian Prince’
– ‘David Howard’
– ‘Karma Choc’
– ‘Phyllis Bide’
– ‘Raspberry Ripple’
What is the earliest blooming dahlia?
The earliest blooming dahlia is the ‘Bishop of Llandaff’. It blooms in early summer, typically around June. The Bishop of Llandaff is a popular choice for gardeners because of its long flowering season and its tolerance to heat and drought.
Another popular early blooming dahlia is the ‘Duchess of Edinburgh’. It typically blooms in late spring or early summer, around May or June. The Duchess of Edinburgh is a popular choice for gardeners because of its long flowering season and its tolerance to heat and drought.
What is the rarest dahlia?
The rarest dahlia is the blue dahlia. This beautiful flower is so rare that it is only found in one place in the world, and that is in the Andes Mountains of South America. The blue dahlia is a symbol of love and beauty, and it is said that if you find one, you will be blessed with good luck.
Is dahlia hardy perennial?
No, dahlias are not hardy perennials. They are actually considered annuals or biennials, which means that they only live for two years at most. However, with proper care, they can often last much longer than that. If you live in an area with cold winters, it is best to dig up the dahlias and store them indoors over the winter.
How long will dahlias last?
Dahlias are a beautiful flower that can brighten up any room, but they don’t last forever. Depending on the type of dahlia, they can last anywhere from a few days to a few months. Here is a guide to help you figure out how long your dahlias will last.
If you have cut dahlias, they will only last a few days. This is because they are cut off from their food source, the stem. To make them last longer, put them in water immediately and change the water every day.
Potted dahlias can last much longer than cut flowers since they are still connected to their food source, the roots. However, they will still need to be watered regularly. Once the flowers start to wilt, you can cut them off and the plant will continue to grow.
Dahlias that are in the ground can last even longer since they have an unlimited food source. However, they are more susceptible to weather conditions and pests. If it is a particularly hot or cold summer, your dahlias may not last as long.
To extend the life of your dahlias, make sure to keep them away from drafts and direct sunlight. Also, check for pests regularly and remove any that you find. With proper care, your dahlias can last a long time.
Do dahlias like sun or shade?
This is a question that I get asked a lot, and the answer is not as simple as you might think. While dahlias do need plenty of sunlight to grow and bloom well, they can also tolerate some shade. The key is to know what type of dahlia you have, and how much sun or shade it needs.
If you have a dahlia that is classified as a “light” or “partial” sun plant, it will need at least four hours of direct sunlight each day. However, if you live in an area with very hot summers, it’s best to give these plants some afternoon shade to prevent them from getting too much heat.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! These are the different types of dahlias that you can find. Each type is unique and beautiful in its own way. So, if you’re ever looking for a flower to brighten up your day, be sure to look for one of these lovely blooms. You won’t be disappointed.
Have you ever seen a dahlia before? What type was it? Let us know in the comments below!
