Dahlia variabilis

(Willd.) Desf.

Dahlia

Asteraceae Edible: Flowers, Seeds Potential hazards — see below 19,743 iNaturalist observations

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Description

A plant that keeps growing from year to year. It grows 2 m high and spreads 1 m wide. The stems are stout, erect and succulent. The leaves are divided and have oval leaflets that taper to the tip. There are teeth around the edge. The flowers have many petals. They are at the top of the plant.

Edible Uses

The flowers are used in salads, and both flowers and seeds are edible.

Traditional Uses

The flowers are used in salads.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Known Hazards

The plant's phytostabilization properties regarding arsenic could lower the risk of the harmful carcinogen to humans.

Distribution

It is a warm temperate plant. It is best in light to medium, well-drained soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is frost resistant but damaged by drought.

Where It Grows

Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America, East Africa, Europe, Guatemala, Mexico*, North America, Spain, Sri Lanka, Zambia,

Cultivation

Plants can be grown by seeds or by dividing the tubers.

References (6)

Benvenuti, S. & Mazzoncini, M., 2021, The Biodiversity of Edible Flowers: Discovering New Tastes and New Health Benefits. Frontiers in Plant Science Article 569499. (As Dahlia mignon)
Bodkin, F., 1991, Encyclopedia Botanica. Cornstalk publishing, p 320
Fowler, D. G., 2007, Zambian Plants: Their Vernacular Names and Uses. Kew. p 76
Guatemala thesis 19 - AppendixE
Hedrick, U.P., 1919, (Ed.), Sturtevant's edible plants of the world. p 263

Show all 6 references