4 Dahlia Types You Can Grow & Design With
It goes without saying that we love dahlias here at Sweet Earth Co. We even have a yearly workshop all about designing with them!
There are endless varieties of dahlias, available in a multitude of styles, sizes, and colors. Some of the more popular dahlia categories include: single, anemone, collerette, waterlily, decorative, ball, pompon, cactus, and semi-cactus. Other less common categories of dahlias include the fimbriated, star, double orchid, stellar, and others noted in a miscellaneous category. For a pictures and details of representative dahlias in each of these categories visit the National Dahlia Society.
Of all these, there are 4 varieties in particular we love to design with: Cactus, Decorative, Ball, and Anemone. There are several sub categories within each of these, which means we have a lot of options to choose from. We’ll share a bit more about each one and how we use them in arrangements in this blog post.
Cactus & Semi-Cactus Dahlias
These dahlias have petals that roll back along their length, giving them a spiky look. We like to use them as focal flowers in our bouquets and arrangements.
Decorative Dahlias
There are so many varieties that fall into this category. We use the larger dinnerplate dahlias as focal flowers. Some of these can get to be 8-10 inches wide. In larger arrangements we often cluster some of the smaller decorative dahlias.
Ball & Pompon Dahlias
Ball dahlias and pompons are full, globe-shaped dahlias. They tend to be hardier and have longer vase life. We use our ball dahlias as filler flowers and to help transition colors in the design.
Anemone Dahlias
These feature an array of flat petals surrounding a cluster of florets and resembles a pincushion. We like to use anemone dahlias to add interest and whimsy to arrangements and bouquets.
Given the wide variety within just these four categories of dahlias, it is easy to design an arrangement with mostly dahlias and use each variety as a different floral layer. You can also use color to expand your creative design. For instance you can use various categories of dahlias as different floral layers in a monochromatic arrangement, or color-block them.
It's safe to say that dahlias are my favorite flower. They never cease to stop me in my tracks to marvel at their beauty, and I love to design with them. I’m certain you will too; give them a try!
Create your own dahlia arrangement at the upcoming Wine & Design workshop. Happening on September 14th, 2023, you’ll visit the Sweet Earth Co. design studio and spend an evening designing with fellow flower enthusiasts. Space is limited — sign up now.
