Garden Dahlia (Dahlia)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Asterales, Family: Asteraceae, Genus: Dahlia, Species: Dahlia pinnata · Asteraceae (Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family) · Compound (pinnately divided into leaflets), deciduous perennial foliage
Species
Dahlia pinnata
Leaf Type
Compound (pinnately divided into leaflets), deciduous perennial foliage
Family
Asteraceae (Aster, Daisy, or Sunflower family)
Shape
Ovate to lanceolate leaflets with serrate margins
Size
Individual leaflets are approximately 2 to 4 inches long and 1 to 2 inches wide, with the overall compound leaf spanning up to 6 inches, which is typical for container-grown dahlias.
Margin
Serrate (sharply toothed)
Arrangement
Opposite
Rarity
Very Common in cultivation and gardens globally.
Color & Pattern
Vibrant medium to dark green upper surface with a slightly paler, matte underside. No variegation or abnormal markings are present.
Venation Pattern
Pinnate (feather-like with prominent central midrib and branching lateral veins)
Texture & Surface
Slightly rough to smooth on the upper surface with distinct veins; slightly paler and softer on the lower surface.
Description
This specimen features lush, deeply green foliage arranged in opposite pairs on stout stems, crowned by a bright peach-orange decorative flower and unopened flower buds. The plant is charmingly housed in a rustic, vintage galvanized metal watering can on a wooden deck.
Key Features
Opposite leaf arrangement, pinnately divided compound leaves with sharply serrate margins, and distinctive tuberous root systems underground.
Habitat
Cultivated in gardens, containers, and borders. Prefers full sun and rich, well-draining, evenly moist soil.
Geographic Range
Native to mountainous regions of Mexico and Central America; widely cultivated as an ornamental garden plant worldwide.
Condition Notes
The foliage appears generally healthy and vibrant green, reflecting good care with minor wear on a few lower leaves. Overall health grade is Good.
Interesting Facts
Dahlias were originally cultivated by the Aztecs for food (tuberous roots) and as a source of long hollow stems for water pipes. They were named in honor of the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily grown as a stunning ornamental garden plant and cut flower. Historically, dahlia tubers were used as a food source and investigated for insulin-like compounds (inulin), though modern varieties are bred mostly for floral beauty.
Ecological Role
Flowers attract a wide variety of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
Similar Species
Other members of the Asteraceae family such as Chrysanthemums or Bidens, but dahlias are easily distinguished by their unique tuberous roots and distinct opposite pinnate leaves.
Foraging Tips
Typically found in cultivated garden settings, floral displays, and nurseries rather than wild habitats outside their native Mesoamerican range.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic to humans, though some pets may experience mild digestive upset if they ingest large amounts of the foliage or tubers.