The varieties of dahlias seem to be endless, flowers of every shade,shape and hue, size, both flamboyant and modest. I have never had much luck growing them, but maybe I should persevere.
They came originally from Mexico and are related to sunflowers, daisies, chrysanthemums and zinnias; there are 4323 varieties and they are named after Anders Dahl, an eighteenth century Swedish botanist. Dahl had another plant named after him the dahlia crinita; crinita means long haired because apparently Anders had a very long beard. This plant was named before the more famous dahlia, but was not published until after the Mexican plant had received its name.
Next time I see a dahlia I shall think of anders and his big beard!
Lois Elsden 