Flower Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| English Name | Dahlia |
| MainColor | Magenta |
| PlantType |  Herb |
| Growth Type |  Cultivated |
| Season | July |
| ImageUrl | Dahlia-001 |
| Photographer | DP |
| Location | |
| Human Toxicity |  Mildly_Toxic |
Flower Details
Description
A showy perennial with striking flower heads in a vast range of colours and forms. Cultivated for ornamentation and as a popular cut flower.
Distribution
Native to Mexico and Central America, but widely cultivated worldwide, including the UK
Medicinal/Other Uses
Limited; some research suggests antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory properties from dahlia tuber extracts.
Edibility
Tubers are technically edible, once eaten by the Aztecs, but usually grown ornamentally; flavour is bland and starchy.
Human Toxicity
The sap may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis in sensitive people.
Pet Toxicity
Mildly toxic — ingestion may cause vomiting or drooling in cats and dogs.
Active Compounds
Inulin (a polysaccharide), flavonoids, anthocyanins.