Dahlia blossom in daylight - darklight... 

The botanical history of dahlia plants is quite fascinating. Dahlias belong to the Asteraceae family and are native to the highlands of Mexico and Central America. They were first discovered by European explorers in the 16th century during their expeditions to the Americas.

The Dahlia has been in Europe for over two hundred years. The first tubers came from Mexico to the Botanical Gardens in Madrid towards the end of the eighteenth century. Did you know that the name "DAHLIA" was given by Antonio José Cavanilles in honour of Andreas Dahl, Swedish scientist and environmentalist, who was a student of the famous botanist Carl Linnaeus. Dahlias were initially classified as a member of the genus Coreopsis, but they were later reclassified as their own genus.

Dahlias gained popularity among botanists and horticulturists due to their diverse and striking flower forms. Through careful cultivation and hybridization, numerous varieties were developed, showcasing a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes.

In the late 18th century, Spanish settlers introduced dahlias to Europe, where they quickly gained popularity among gardeners and plant enthusiasts. Dahlia fever swept across the continent, with many dedicated breeders working on improving the flower's characteristics and creating new varieties.

Over the years, dahlias have become one of the most beloved and widely cultivated garden plants. Today, there are thousands of dahlia cultivars available, ranging from small, delicate flowers to large, showy blooms. They come in various colors, including vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, pinks, and purples.

Dahlias have also become popular as cut flowers due to their long-lasting blooms and attractive appearance in floral arrangements. They are often used in gardens, borders, and flower beds to add a burst of color and beauty.

With their rich botanical history and stunning range of varieties, dahlias continue to captivate plant enthusiasts and bring joy to gardens and flower enthusiasts around the world.