From Aztec temple ornament to modern summer flower
The dwarf dahlia mix Dahlia variabilis, also known as Georgina, combines the informal charm of simple blooms with a compact, bushy growth habit. Dahlias originate from Mexico, where they were cultivated long before their introduction to Europe – and were even used to adorn Aztec temples.
In their native region, dahlias served not only as ornamental plants. Their underground, starchy tubers as well as their flowers were considered edible. The tubers can be prepared in a similar way to potatoes, while the freshly harvested flowers make a mild and decorative addition to salads. Although dahlias are now mainly grown for their ornamental value, this historical use reflects their long-standing cultural significance.
With a growth height of around 25 to 50 cm, this mix is intentionally low-growing and ideal for the front of flower beds, as a colourful edging along paths, or for pots and balcony planters. The open, single flowers appear in a vivid range of colours including red, pink, yellow, purple, white and warm shades such as salmon.
The simple flower shape is not only visually appealing but also ecologically valuable: it makes nectar and pollen easily accessible and reliably attracts bees and butterflies. The flowers are also well-suited for small summer bouquets. When deadheaded regularly, the plants will bloom all summer long into autumn.
An easy-going summer flower with a story – compact, floriferous and pollinator-friendly.
Sowing & Care
Sowing the dwarf dahlia mix is best done indoors about four to eight weeks before the last frost. Cover the seeds lightly with fine soil or substrate and keep them evenly moist at a temperature between 20 and 30 °C. Germination usually occurs within 7 to 21 days.
Once the first true leaves appear, prick out the seedlings and grow them on individually. Transplant outdoors only after the risk of frost has passed – ideally after the Ice Saints. A sunny, warm spot with loose, humus-rich and well-drained soil promotes abundant flowering.
During the growing and flowering season, water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Moderate fertilisation and the regular removal of faded flowers will prolong the flowering period and encourage compact, healthy growth.
In autumn, tubers can be lifted and overwintered frost-free for replanting the following spring. Young plants must be protected from slugs.
Other names
| Botanical name: |
Dahlia variabilis; Syn. Dahlia hortensis; Dahlia pinnata |
| French names: |
Dahlia, Dahlia nain, Dahlia simple, Dahlia à fleurs simples, Dahlia de bordure |
| Spanish names: |
Dalia, Dalia enana, Dalia simple, Dalia de jardín, Dalia de bordura |
| Italian names: |
Dalia, Dalia nana, Dalia semplice, Dalia da bordura, Dalia ornamentale |
| Dutch names: |
Dahlia, Dwergdahlia, Lage dahlia, Enkelbloemige dahlia, Borderdahlia |
