Dahlia << DAL yuh >> is the name of a popular group of garden flowers native to Central America. Some dahlias are ball-shaped; others have long, flat petals. Cactus dahlias have double blossoms with long, twisted petals. Dahlias are grown around the world. They are named for the Swedish botanist Anders Dahl.
Dahlias grow from tuberous, or thick, fleshy roots that look somewhat like bulbs. They should be planted in rich, well-drained soil, and in full sun after all danger of frost has passed. After the first frost, the roots should be dug up and stored for the winter in a cool, dry place. Storing the root clump with soil attached will stop shriveling. At planting time, the roots should be separated and planted about 6 inches (15 centimeters) deep. Dahlias flower in the late summer.
