Types of Dahlias (Dahlia Flower Varieties)

When it comes to adding vibrant colors and beauty to your garden or floral arrangements, dahlias are a top choice. These stunning flowers come in a wide range of types, each with its own unique characteristics. From the popular cultivars to the rare and unique species, there is a dahlia variety to suit every taste and preference.

With so many different types of dahlias to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the world of dahlias and make informed decisions for your garden. We’ll explore the various classifications, including color, form, and size, so you can choose the perfect varieties of dahlia flowers to bring joy to your outdoor space.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the classifications of dahlias can help you choose the right types for your garden or floral arrangements.
• Dahlias come in a vast array of colors, from crisp whites and vibrant yellows to deep reds and rich purples.
• There are different flower forms of dahlias, such as anemone, ball, cactus, collarette, decorative, and more, each with its own unique characteristics.
• Dahlias vary in size, from giant dinnerplate dahlias to smaller miniature dahlias, allowing you to select varieties that suit your garden space.
• Anemone-flowered, collarette, ball, pompon, cactus, semi-cactus, decorative, and dinnerplate dahlias are popular types to consider for your garden or floral arrangements.

Color Classification

Dahlias come in a stunning array of colors, ranging from crisp whites and vibrant yellows to deep reds and rich purples. The American Dahlia Society has classified dahlias into 15 distinct color categories, including white, yellow, orange, bronze, flame, red, pink, lavender, purple, blends, bicolored, and variegated. This classification system helps gardeners easily identify and choose dahlias based on their preferred color palette.

Each color category offers its own unique beauty and charm. White dahlias exude purity and elegance, while yellow dahlias bring a cheerful and sunny vibe to any garden. Orange dahlias add a pop of warmth and vibrancy, while bronze dahlias create a rich and earthy atmosphere. Flame dahlias showcase fiery hues that ignite passion, while red dahlias symbolize love and passion.

Pink dahlias bring a soft and romantic touch, while lavender dahlias offer a sense of tranquility and serenity. Purple dahlias exude mystery and elegance, while blends, bicolored, and variegated dahlias provide a fascinating fusion of colors that can add depth and interest to floral arrangements.

Color Classification Table:

By understanding the color classification of dahlias, gardeners can carefully select the hues that will complement their garden or floral arrangements. Whether you prefer the simplicity of white dahlias, the vibrancy of orange dahlias, or the intrigue of variegated dahlias, there is a color category that will surely captivate your senses and enhance the beauty of your dahlia collection.

Form Classification

Dahlias are known for their diverse range of flower forms, each with its own unique beauty. From the delicate petals of the anemone form to the tightly curled cactus petals, there is a dahlia form to suit every gardener’s taste. Understanding the different forms can help you choose dahlias that will complement your garden and arrangements.

Anemone

The anemone form of dahlias features a central cluster of tubular florets surrounded by a ring of traditional petals. This form creates a beautiful textured appearance, resembling a pincushion. Anemone dahlias come in various colors and sizes, adding intrigue and charm to floral displays.

Cactus

Cactus dahlias have unique, long, narrow, and pointed petals that are curled inwards. This form creates a spiky, eye-catching appearance, bringing drama and excitement to bouquets and garden beds. Cactus dahlias are available in a wide range of vibrant colors, making them a popular choice for adding visual interest to any floral arrangement.

Decorative

Decorative dahlias are known for their large, rounded blooms and overlapping petals. These dahlias come in a variety of sizes and colors, making them versatile for both garden beds and cut flower arrangements. With their stunning form and abundant petals, decorative dahlias are sure to make a statement in any garden or floral display.

Size Classification

Dahlias are known for their diverse range of sizes, from small and delicate blooms to large and impressive flowers. The American Dahlia Society has established a size classification system to help gardeners choose dahlias that are proportionate to their garden space and desired visual impact. The size categories are as follows:

• AA: This category includes the largest dahlias, with blooms that measure over 10 inches in diameter.
• A: Dahlias in this category have blooms that measure between 8 and 10 inches in diameter.
• B: The blooms of dahlias in this category range from 6 to 8 inches in diameter.
• BB: Dahlias in this category have blooms that measure between 4 and 6 inches in diameter.
• M: The blooms of dahlias in this category range from 3 to 4 inches in diameter.
• BA: Dahlias in this category have blooms that measure between 2 and 3 inches in diameter.
• MB: The blooms of dahlias in this category range from 1.5 to 2.5 inches in diameter.
• P: Dahlias in this category have blooms that measure between 1 and 1.5 inches in diameter.
• MS: The blooms of dahlias in this category range from 0.25 to 1 inch in diameter.

By understanding the size classification of dahlias, gardeners can choose varieties that will complement their garden space and create the desired visual impact. Whether you want to make a bold statement with giant dinnerplate dahlias or add delicate charm with miniature dahlias, there is a dahlia size that suits every gardener’s taste.

Anemone-Flowered and Collarette Dahlias

Two unique and captivating types of dahlias are anemone-flowered dahlias and collarette dahlias. These varieties offer distinct features and add charm to any garden or floral arrangement.

Anemone-flowered dahlias are known for their interesting textures and vibrant colors. They have a central pincushion of tubular florets that is surrounded by traditional petals. This unique structure creates a captivating visual effect and adds depth to bouquets. Anemone-flowered dahlias are popular for their bushy growth habit and prolific blooming, making them a favorite among gardeners.

Collarette dahlias, on the other hand, have a different petal arrangement that sets them apart. They feature two different petal lengths, with an outer row of standard petals and an inner row of short, frilly petals. This distinctive combination adds an element of whimsy and elegance to any floral display. Collarette dahlias are cherished for their lush foliage, long blooming period, and ability to thrive even in challenging growing conditions.

Table: Comparison of Anemone-Flowered and Collarette Dahlias

Both anemone-flowered and collarette dahlias are excellent choices for adding beauty and variety to your garden or floral arrangements. Their unique characteristics make them stand out and create stunning focal points. Whether you prefer the textured blooms of anemone-flowered dahlias or the intricate petal arrangement of collarette dahlias, these types of dahlias are sure to impress.

Ball and Pompon Dahlias

Ball dahlias and pompon dahlias are two popular types of dahlias known for their unique flower forms and vibrant colors. These dahlias are adored by gardeners and flower enthusiasts alike for their compact size and eye-catching blooms.

Ball dahlias, as the name suggests, have perfectly round flowers that resemble balls. The petals of ball dahlias are tightly rolled, creating a striking and symmetrical appearance. These dahlias come in a wide range of colors, from bold and bright hues to soft pastels, making them versatile for various floral arrangements. Whether used as focal points in bouquets or as accents in mixed flower displays, ball dahlias add a touch of elegance and charm.

Pompon dahlias, on the other hand, are smaller in size and feature adorable button-like blooms. The petals are tightly packed, giving the flowers a pompon or pompom-like appearance. Pompon dahlias are available in a myriad of colors, including vibrant yellows, pinks, and purples. These dahlias are a favorite among flower arrangers and are often used to add texture and dimension to arrangements. They are also well-suited for smaller, hand-tied bouquets and can create a whimsical and playful atmosphere.

Table: Comparison of Ball Dahlias and Pompon Dahlias

Both ball dahlias and pompon dahlias are excellent choices for adding color and visual interest to gardens and floral arrangements. Their unique flower forms and range of colors make them versatile for various design styles and preferences. Whether you prefer the larger, perfectly round blooms of ball dahlias or the smaller, button-like flowers of pompon dahlias, these dahlias will surely captivate and delight with their charming and enchanting presence.

Cactus and Semi-Cactus Dahlias

Cactus dahlias are known for their striking and elegant appearance. Their tightly curled, ray-like petals create a unique texture that adds sophistication and excitement to floral arrangements. These dahlias come in a wide range of vibrant colors, including reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows, making them a popular choice for adding a pop of color to any garden or bouquet.

When growing cactus dahlias, it’s important to provide support for their slender stems, as they can become top-heavy when in full bloom. Stake them to ensure they stay upright and prevent any damage caused by strong winds. With proper care and support, cactus dahlias will reward you with abundant blooms throughout the summer and into fall.

Semi-cactus dahlias, on the other hand, have pointed petals that are revolute for a specific length, creating a stunning visual effect. These dahlias are versatile and can be used in various garden styles, from formal to cottage gardens. Their tall, sturdy stems make them excellent cut flowers, and their pointed petals add drama and interest to any floral arrangement.

Whether you choose cactus dahlias or semi-cactus dahlias, you’ll be adding a touch of elegance and beauty to your garden. These dahlias are sure to captivate both gardeners and admirers with their unique forms and vibrant colors, making them a must-have for any flower lover.

Comparison between Cactus and Semi-Cactus Dahlias

Decorative Dahlias and Dinnerplate Dahlias

Decorative dahlias and dinnerplate dahlias are two popular categories of dahlias that offer a wide range of colors, styles, and sizes. These dahlias are known for their stunning blooms and are highly sought after for both garden displays and cut flower arrangements. Let’s take a closer look at each category and discover the unique qualities that make them stand out.

Decorative Dahlias

Decorative dahlias are the largest category of dahlias, known for their large and showy blooms. These dahlias come in a wide assortment of colors, ranging from vibrant reds and oranges to soft pinks and whites. The petals of decorative dahlias can be either straight or slightly incurved, giving them a beautiful and symmetrical appearance.

One of the advantages of decorative dahlias is their versatility. They can be used in various ways, including as focal points in garden beds, to add height and drama to borders, or as cut flowers in bouquets. With their long stems and impressive flower size, decorative dahlias are highly prized by florists and home gardeners alike.

Dinnerplate Dahlias

Dinnerplate dahlias are known for their breathtakingly large blooms, which can reach up to 10 inches in diameter. These dahlias are true showstoppers, commanding attention with their sheer size and vibrant colors. Dinnerplate dahlias come in a wide range of shades, including bold and bright hues as well as soft pastels.

These dahlias make a bold statement in the garden, creating an eye-catching focal point. Their large blooms make them ideal for adding drama to mixed flower arrangements or for creating stunning flower centerpieces. Keep in mind that dinnerplate dahlias may require staking to support their heavy blooms, but the effort is well worth it for the striking visual impact they provide.

In conclusion, decorative dahlias and dinnerplate dahlias are two captivating categories of dahlias that bring beauty and elegance to any garden or floral arrangement. Whether you prefer the symmetrical petals and versatility of decorative dahlias or the awe-inspiring size and impact of dinnerplate dahlias, these varieties are sure to add a touch of grandeur to your outdoor space. Explore the wide range of colors and styles available within these categories and let the beauty of dahlias mesmerize you.

Conclusion

Dahlias are a versatile and beautiful addition to any garden or floral arrangement. With their diverse range of colors, forms, and sizes, there is a dahlia variety to suit every gardener’s preferences. By understanding the different classifications of dahlias, gardeners can choose the perfect dahlias to create stunning displays and bring vibrant colors to their outdoor spaces.

When selecting dahlias, consider the types that best fit your desired color palette, such as the elegant whites or the vibrant reds. You can also explore various forms, from the intricate petals of the anemone-flowered dahlias to the perfectly round flowers of ball dahlias. Don’t forget to think about size too, whether you prefer the giant dinnerplate dahlias or the charming miniature ones.

Whether you’re creating a bouquet or enhancing your garden, choosing dahlias is an exciting process. With their unique characteristics and eye-catching blooms, dahlias can add a touch of elegance and drama to any setting. So go ahead and explore the world of dahlia varieties, and let these stunning flowers bring joy and beauty to your outdoor spaces.