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20 Dahlia Types and Varieties to Grow in Your Garden

Dahlias are the garden's ultimate show-stoppers!

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dahlia types varieties
Betsie Van der Meer

Dahlias are the garden's ultimate show-stoppers, with a dazzling lineup of varieties that bring beautiful pops of color to any backyard. From petite pompons to dinnerplate-sized blooms, these lovely flowers cater to every taste and style. In fact, even Ree recently shared that she's planting dahlias in her garden this year!

So, why should you plant them in your garden? Picture this: vibrant balls of color that bloom from summer through fall, attracting bees, butterflies, and of course, admiration from your neighbors. These summer flowers thrive in sun or partial shade, making them popular choices for garden beds or eye-catching centerpieces in containers. But it's not just about looks—dahlias are also super low-maintenance flowers.

Need some gardening tips? Simply give dahlias well-drained soil, a bit of water, and a sprinkle of fertilizer now and then, and you'll be rewarded with armfuls of cut flowers for stunning bouquets. Whether you're into decorative types that steal the spotlight, or whimsical pompons that'll brighten up your kitchen table, dahlias are sure to bring a burst of personality and charm to your garden. Choose from our favorite dahlia types and varieties ahead and get ready for your garden to come to life!

1

Ball Dahlia

dahlia types varieties ball dahlia
Alex Manders

These dahlias have cute, rounded blooms that look like little pom-poms. They're perfect for adding a playful touch to any garden!

2

Pompon Dahlia

dahlia types varieties pompon dahlia
Jacky Parker Photography

This variety is similar to ball dahlias but even smaller and rounder. They resemble plush, miniature cushions and are ideal for adding delicate texture to floral arrangements.

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3

Cactus Dahlia

types varieties cactus dahlia
Jacky Parker Photography

Cactus dahlias are known for their distinctive spiky appearance, with petals that are rolled or twisted and often curve backward. This unique form gives them a striking texture and evokes a vibrant, desert-inspired aesthetic.

4

Semi-Cactus Dahlia

dahlia types varieties semi cactus dahlia
Jacky Parker Photography

Semi-cactus dahlias have petals that are less tightly rolled than cactus dahlias but still have a pointed or spiky appearance. They're the perfect balance between the formal decorative and cactus dahlias.

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5

Waterlily Dahlia

dahlia types varieties waterlily dahlia
Jacky Parker Photography

Waterlily dahlias are named for their resemblance to water lilies, with broad, slightly curved petals that give their flowers a flat or shallow cup-like shape. They're perfect for adding a peaceful ambiance to garden ponds or floral arrangements.

6

Anemone Dahlia

dahlia types varieties anemone dahlia
Alex Manders

Anemone dahlias feature a single or double row of flat or slightly cupped petals surrounding a dense center of florets. This unique flower adds depth to bouquets and garden borders.

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7

Decorative Dahlia

dahlia types varieties decorative dahlia
Alex Manders

Decorative dahlias are beloved for their large, fully double flowers with broad, overlapping petals. They come in a wide range of colors and are popular choices for creating bold focal points in gardens.

8

Fimbriated Dahlia

dahlia types varieties fimbriated dahlia
Alex Manders

Fimbriated dahlias have petals with finely fringed edges, which gives them a delicate and textured appearance. Their unique features make them a popular choice for gardens and floral exhibitions.

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9

Collarette Dahlia

dahlia types varieties collarette dahlia
Jacky Parker Photography

Collarette dahlias feature a central disc surrounded by a ring of shorter petals, creating a collar-like appearance. This secondary row of petals adds a charming and intricate detail to their flowers.

10

Orchid Dahlia

dahlia types varieties orchid dahlia
Maria Forbes

Orchid dahlias have open centers and twisted or curled petals that give them a unique, orchid-like appearance with a touch of tropical flair. This exotic look makes them standout additions to garden landscapes and floral designs.

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11

Stellar Dahlia

dahlia types varieties stellar dahlia
kendoNice

Stellar dahlias have pointed petals that radiate outward from a central disc, resembling starbursts. They bring a dynamic and celestial quality to any garden.

12

Bishop Dahlia

dahlia types varieties bishop dahlia
Andrea Sommer

Bishop dahlias are characterized by their dark, almost black foliage that contrasts beautifully with their vibrant flowers. Their bold colors and distinctive foliage will create a striking focal point in any garden.

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13

Mignon Dahlia

dahlia types varieties mignon dahlia
karen crewe

Mignon dahlias are small-flowered varieties that pack a punch with their vibrant colors and compact growth habit. They're perfect for containers, small garden spaces, and adding bursts of color to mixed borders and floral arrangements.

14

Single Orchid Dahlia

dahlia types varieties single orchid dahlia
AVR

Single orchid dahlias have petals that twist and turn like orchids, creating a unique floral display. They bring a touch of exotic beauty to gardens and bouquets.

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15

Incurved Cactus Dahlia

dahlia types varieties incurved cactus dahlia
valerie

Incurved cactus dahlias have petals that curl inward toward their center, giving them a spiky and dynamic appearance. With their distinctive form and sharp petal edges, they add texture and interest to garden beds and bouquets.

16

Pomponette Dahlia

dahlia types varities pomponette dahlia
AYImages

Pomponette dahlias are miniature versions of pompon dahlias, featuring small, rounded blooms that are densely packed with petals. They add a cute and charming touch to garden borders, containers, and bouquets.

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17

Star Dahlia

dahlia types varieties star dahlia
inoc

These magical little flowers have petals that point outward like twinkling stars. Plant them to create a celestial effect in your garden.

18

Dinnerplate Dahlia

dahlia types varieties dinner plate dahlia
Pattianne Stone

Dinnerplate dahlias are known for their exceptionally large flowers, often exceeding 10 inches in diameter. This one will undoubtedly be the star of the show in your garden!

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19

Anemone-Flowered Dahlia

dahlia types varieties anemone flowered dahlia
JacobStark

Anemone dahlias feature flat or cupped outer petals surrounding a prominent center of tubular florets. Their layered and textured appearance makes anemone dahlias a popular choice for floral competitions and garden showcases.

20

Bicolor Dahlia

dahlia types varieties bicolor dahlia
Rvo233

Bicolor dahlias have petals that display two distinct colors or shades, creating a striking contrast or gradient effect. They are prized for their vibrant and eye-catching appearance.

Headshot of Tierney McAfee

Tierney McAfee is a freelance writer and Country Living and The Pioneer Woman contributor who covers entertainment, holiday & entertaining, food & drinks, design ideas, DIY, and more.

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