DAHLIA.
Mexico to Colombia. Tuberous-rooted perennial daisies known almost exclusively
from the thousands of hybrids now available worldwide. The following are two
very different species, both of them in turn distinct from any of the hybrid
forms. Both are of easy culture but will grow and bloom best in a sunny site
with rich, reasonably well drained soil and regular watering while in growth
and bloom. Root-hardy despite freezes of 15oF
or less, though fairly tender above ground.
coccinea. This is a bushy, slender stemmed plant of 2-4’, with large, dark
green, twice-divided leaves. The 2½" single flower heads are bright orange-scarlet
in our original wild-collected material, and borne in loose clusters at
the shoot tips from midsummer to fall. Beginning with the cultivar ‘Bishop
of Llandaff’, with red-tinged leaves and semi-double red flowers, Ginny
Hunt has raised several generations of seedlings, more interesting and
variable with each generation. Stems and leaves vary from bright green
to burgundy. Flower colors range from bright yellow to crimson. We will
try to offer a representative sampling.
imperialis. Tree dahlia. An enormous (20’ in the parent stock) plant with
thick, angled, semi-woody stems and very large, twice-divided, dark green
leaves. In fall it bears many lavender flower heads 4" or more across at
the shoot tips. There are also white flowered forms, as well as double
flowered selections of both colors.