This genus consists of about 36 species of bushy perennials that originate from a tuberous root (often mistakenly called a bulb or a tuber). They are available in a wide variety of sizes, colors and flower shapes. Since they originated in a subtropical region, they are generally not hardy in the temperate zones and are either used as "annuals" or the tuberous roots must be dug after the frost has killed the foliage and stored over the winter.

The genus is named for the 18th century Swedish botanist Anders Dahl.

Dahlia Classifications