Dahlias: wonders from Central America

I always knew many dahlias were native to Central America with a range from Mexico to Colombia. Today while hiking in a nature reserve just east of San Miguel de Allende I was absolutely overjoyed to spot this wonderful specimen of Dahlia coccinea happily growing in the shade of an oak tree.

Strangely enough they seem to favour rocky slopes and outcrops, quite opposite to the rich garden soils they are given in North American gardens. Of course, much hybridization has been done within this genus of plants resulting in doubles as large as dinner plates. But I love the simple flowers and finding this spectacular single species was a real spirit lifter.

Of course with September upon us dahlias are putting on a great show still in B.C. gardens. And as long as the weather is favourable will continue to do so. Wait until the first frost blackens the tops (which may be as late as November in coastal B.C.), then cut them back and carefully lift the tubers.
Pot them up in peat or old potting soil and store in a cool well-aired frost-free garage or shed.

• Davida Tarrant blogs,
• Mexican natives plants,
• wild dahlias,
• dahlias care,
• dahlias,
• blogs,
• Central America natives,
• David Tarrant,