Dahlia Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Dahlia

Dahlia 'Graceland'
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Division:	Magnoliophyta
Class:	Magnoliopsida
Order:	Asterales
Family:	Asteraceae
Genus:	Dahlia
Species
30 species, 20,000 cultivars

Dahlias are a type of plant known for their big, colorful flowers. They originally come from places like Mexico, Central America, and Colombia. There are at least 36 different kinds, or species, of Dahlia plants. People often grow Dahlias in their gardens because they are so beautiful. These flowers like to grow in spots that don't get too much harsh sunlight.

Discovering Dahlias
- Where Dahlias Grow
- Many Kinds of Dahlias
  - Dahlia Shapes and Sizes
Growing Dahlias
- Caring for Your Dahlias
- When Dahlias Bloom
Dahlias in Culture
- A Symbol of Beauty
Awesome Dahlia Pictures
See also

Discovering Dahlias

Dahlias are part of the sunflower family. This family is called Asteraceae. They are famous for their amazing variety. You can find Dahlias in almost every color except blue. Their flowers can be tiny, like a button. Or they can be huge, like a dinner plate!

Where Dahlias Grow

Dahlias are native to the mountains of Mexico. They also grow naturally in Central America and Colombia. In these places, they grow in cooler, higher areas. The Aztecs in Mexico grew Dahlias long ago. They even used parts of the plant for food and medicine.

Many Kinds of Dahlias

There are many different types of Dahlias. Scientists have identified at least 36 natural species. But gardeners have created over 20,000 different kinds! These are called cultivars. Each cultivar has its own unique look. Some have petals that look like cactus spines. Others have petals that are perfectly round.

Dahlia Shapes and Sizes

Dahlia flowers come in many shapes. Some look like a ball. Others are flat and open. There are also types that look like water lilies. Their sizes vary a lot too. Some mini Dahlias are only 2 inches across. Giant Dahlias can be more than 10 inches wide! This huge variety makes them very popular.

Growing Dahlias

Dahlias are grown from tubers. These are like small potato-like roots. You plant the tubers in the spring. They need soil that drains well. They also need a spot that gets plenty of sunlight. But they don't like very strong, direct sun all day.

Caring for Your Dahlias

Dahlias need regular watering. This is especially true when they are growing. They also like a bit of fertilizer. As the plants grow, they can get quite tall. Some types might need a stake to support them. This keeps their heavy flowers from falling over.

When Dahlias Bloom

Dahlias usually start blooming in mid-summer. They continue to flower until the first frost. This means you can enjoy their beautiful blooms for many months. When winter comes, in colder places, people dig up the tubers. They store them indoors until spring. This protects them from freezing.

Dahlias in Culture

Dahlias are very important in Mexico. They are the national flower of Mexico. They represent elegance and dignity. People use them in celebrations and art. Their bright colors add joy to many events.

A Symbol of Beauty

Around the world, Dahlias are loved for their beauty. They are often used in bouquets. They are also popular in flower shows. Gardeners enjoy trying to grow the biggest or most perfect Dahlia. Their amazing variety makes them a favorite for many people.