Dahlia
Dahlia variabilis
Family: Asteraceae
What it is like
A plant that keeps growing from year to year. It grows 2 m high and spreads 1 m wide. The stems are stout, erect and succulent. The leaves are divided and have oval leaflets that taper to the tip. There are teeth around the edge. The flowers have many petals. They are at the top of the plant.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It is best in light to medium, well-drained soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is frost resistant but damaged by drought.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America, East Africa, Europe, Guatemala, Mexico (country/location of origin), North America, Spain, Sri Lanka, Zambia
How it is used for food
The flowers are used in salads.
Edible parts
Flowers, seeds
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seeds or by dividing the tubers.