Friday, March 2, 2012

Dahlia Flowers For A Variety Things

The dahlia flower – named after the 18th century botanist Anders Dahl – is from the genusasteraceae and has more than 30 species within its family. Dahlias are native mostly to Mexico, butactually grow best in cooler temperatures with regular moisture in the soil. These remarkableflowers can range in size, shape and color. The plants themselves can start out at a moderate 12inches tall, while other variations may grow several feet in height.

The flowers are quite thesame, beginning at a very petite 1 inch around, all the way to, roughly, the size of a dinnerplate. As for color, the dahlia flower has a vast array of hues that can range from bronze, towhite, to purple. However, many dahlias may also be bi colored, variegated, or separated intoclassifications of light or dark blends – the light blend being multiple shades of faint pastels,the dark blend being more muted.

Over time, people have attempted to use dahlia flowers for a variety things. For instance, in 1929a herbal script that was written in Latin, and was dated as far back as 1550 was discovered. Thisscript recommended the usage of the dahlia flower for the easing of symptoms of epilepsy. In Europein the 1880s, when disease had ravaged potato crops, an attempt was made to use the tubers of the
dahlia as a supplemental food supply. However, as time passed, it was found that,althoughperfectly edible, these plants were better used for decorative purposes. Today, dahlias are prizedsolely for their beauty. This is best noted in one of the many competitions and shows that can befound mostly within the United States and Canada. These are often held by dahlia growing societies,which advocate and encourage avid gardeners to grow these spectacular blossoms.

Symbolic Meaning: Elegance and dignity
The flower got its name in honor of the botanist Anders Dahl from Sweden, who lived and worked inthe 18th century. It represents the official flower of Seattle.Dahlia is considered to be the national flower of Mexico. It originated from the mountainous placesof Mexico and Guatemala. Today one can find about 30 species and 20 thousandcultivars of dahlia.

In the end of the 18th century a box full of dahlia roots were sent from Mexico to Holland. Howeverthe only one root has survived. It grew bearing a red-colored blossom with therolled back petals.

In no moment this amazing flower has gained an immense popularity; many breeders started tocultivate dahlias producing a lot of various varieties.
Nowadays dahlia can be met in a vast array of colors and shades. They are white, purple, yellow,lavender, orange, pink, bi-colored and variegated blossoms, bronze, flame and red.

As a symbol, the dahlia flower can offer a great deal of meaning. In general, they are thought tosymbolize dignity and elegance, but they are also thought to express an eternal bond between twopeople. Many people prefer to give dahlia flowers as anniversary gifts, as these flowers are alsoan emblem for the 14th year of marriage. They also make great gifts for high-profile weddings and
even engagement parties, as they not only represent dignity, but a wish that thecouple remainsstrong throughout their years together.

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