09/27/2024
Flower Facts 🎉✨ - Dahlias
Wide Variety: Dahlias come in an incredible range of colors, shapes, and sizes. There are over 42 different species and thousands of varieties, from small “pom-pom” types to dinner-plate-sized blooms, which can reach up to 12 inches across. What you see in this photo is the Anemone variety. They are one of the more sensitive. Dahlias, but with proper care and careful placement, they’re one of my favorite additions.
Long Bloom Season: They bloom from mid-summer through fall, making them perfect for late-season arrangements when many other flowers have finished their bloom cycle. - Luckily, Michigan has some BOMB flower farmers, and I can get them as early as June :)
Native Origins: Dahlias are native to the mountainous regions of Mexico and Central America. They were first cultivated by the Aztecs, who grew them for their beauty and practical uses, such as food and medicine. - This was surprising news to me! I didn’t know dahlias have medicinal purposes. - From the research I’ve quickly done, here are some bullet points : Edible Tuber Roots: The Aztecs traditionally consumed the tubers of dahlias as a food source. These tubers contain a natural sugar called inulin, which the body processes differently from glucose. Inulin has prebiotic properties, meaning it can support gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. It is also being explored for its potential use in managing blood sugar levels for people with diabetes. Diuretic Properties: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that dahlia tubers were used for their diuretic effects, helping to flush excess water and salts from the body. Immune System Support: While scientific research is limited, dahlia extracts could help support the immune system, particularly due to the inulin content, which might promote a healthy gut environment. Skin Health: Traditional uses also include applying dahlia extracts or oils to the skin to soothe irritation, although this practice is based more on historical accounts than scientific evidence.
Symbolism: In the language of flowers, dahlias represent dignity, elegance, and a lasting bond.- CUTE as heck
