Giant Dahlia, Tree dahlia
Dahlia imperialis

Family: Asteraceae

What it is like

A herb which keeps growing from year to year. It grows 3-5 m high. The leaves are 20-25 cm long and have leaflets along the stalk. The leaflets are 5 cm long. They are downy. The leaflets have teeth along the edge. The leaf stalk forms a sheath around the stem at the base. The flowers are yellow in the centre and violet, pink or white on the outside. The flowers are 12 cm across.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It needs moderate moisture and a fertile, well drained soil. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It suits plant hardiness zones 8-10.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Central America, Colombia (country/location of origin), Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, India, Indonesia, Mexico (country/location of origin), Myanmar, North America, Panama, SE Asia, South America

How it is used for food

The roots are ground and added to coffee like chicory. The young leaves are eaten.

Edible parts

Roots - coffee, leaves

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds and cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Catalina, Catarina, Dahlia giganton, Tree Dahlia, Tzoloj

Synonyms

Dahlia arborea;