Dahlias are native to the high plains of Mexico and other parts of Central America. They were cultivated by the Aztecs in pre-Cortez times. They were introduced to Europe by the Spanish in 1784. They were first first grown in the Botanical Gardens in Madrid. Abbe Cavanille named the new plants Dahlias in honour of Andreas Dahl a Swedish naturalist and student of Carl Linnaeus. Dahlia Penelope is A full petalled form with pale yellow petals tinged pink, particularly towards the petal edges. An old variety that has stood the test of time.
Planting instructions
Tender. Store dry till March, then pot up and grow with warmth to plant out in late May. Sunny position in good soil with summer moisture.