Dahlia

What the dahlia means

Dahlias are native to Mexico and Central America, where they were grown long before Spanish contact, and the dahlia has been Mexico's national flower since 1963. They reached Europe in the late 18th century and were named for the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl. Victorian flower dictionaries gave them mixed readings, from dignity and elegance to instability, perhaps because they were then a fashionable novelty. Today dahlias are often given to mark lasting commitment and creativity, though these are modern florist associations rather than old tradition.

Flower meanings come mostly from Victorian floriography, and they vary between books, eras, and cultures.

Often sent for

• Birthday
• Anniversary
• Thank you
• Just because

By colour

• Coral Associated in modern use with warmth and gratitude.
• Blush Often chosen for weddings and gentle admiration.
• Burgundy Sometimes read as dignity and strength.
• Pink Often given for kindness and grace.
• Yellow Associated with cheer and friendship.