Dahlia
Dahlia
is a genus of bushy, summer- and autumn-flowering, tuberous
perennials that are originally from Mexico,
where they are the national flower. In 1872
a box of Dahlia roots were sent from Mexico
to the Netherlands.
Only one plant survived the trip, but produced spectacular
red flowers with pointed petals. Nurserymen bred from this
plant, which was named Dahlia juarezii with parents of Dahlias
discovered earlier and these are the progenitors of all modern
Dahlia hybrids. Ever since plant breeders have been actively
breeding Dahlias to produce hundreds of hybrids, usually chosen
for their stunning and brightly coloured flowers.
Modern
popular varieties include:
The
dahlia is named after Swedish 18th century botanist Anders
Dahl.
