Dahlias are a huge class of flowers that have a long history of breeders, experts and aficionados. Our interest lies in both dahlias for cut flower growers and ones more suited to home growers. With that said, we appreciate the standards set by having “show” flowers and also the classifications and guidelines that come from that. Our bloom type and size information listed is based on farm observations, measurements and guidelines listed by the Dahlia Society of Victoria - For more detailed information, please visit their website.

Please note - We are rigorous in identifying the tubers we grow and sell. If there is any question regarding a variety, the conversation is included in the description.

ANEMONE DAHLIAS

‘PUREX’

Unlike other double types such as Cactus and Decorative forms the central florets are a prominent feature - quite like the Scabiosa type zinnias (‘Zinderella Lilac’). Blooms must be under 160mm diameter. 

Bloom should be fully double. Side view of the centre should be dome shaped, made up of elongated tubular florets, compacted tightly, so that the central disc does not show. Outer florets should preferably form one row of evenly sized flat, broad florets with rounded tips, regularly arranged around the centre florets.

BALL DAHLIAS

‘WINKIE LAMBRUSCO’

Blooms should be fully double and spherical like a ball with petals that reflex back fully to the stem. The petals on the back half of the bloom also curl into themselves - a tube effect.

Ball shaped dahlias are long lasting

Bloom size may be Miniature (under 120mm) or Small (120mm to under 160mm).

DECORATIVE DAHLIAS

There are three different types of decorative dahlias for show judging purposes - Formal, Informal and Semi-Decorative. Essential they are all fully double blooms with a high petal count and a flatter overall shaped (as compared to Ball dahlias).

Bloom size may be any of the five size classifications from Miniature (under 120mm) to Giant (260mm and over).

This encompasses alot of dahlias - many of which are popular cut flowers, sought after by florists, used as gorgeous event flowers and all differ in colour, size and overall presentation - so we offer photos as descriptions.

FORMAL DECORATIVE STANDARD

‘gLENMARC MARGARET’

INFORMAL DECORATIVE STANDARD

‘CAFE AU LAIT’

SEMI-DECORATIVE STANDARD

‘HILLIER TUNUNDRA’

CACTUS DAHLIAS

‘WINKIE MARK’

Cactus Dahlias are named because their blooms resemble those of a cactus found in Central America

POMPON

‘WHITE POMPON’

These are the cutest mini dahlias - like big buttons on a dwarf’s jacket. They are densely petaled, mini ball shapes - only about 30-40mm in diameter. Their size and colour add to the texture of a bouquet making them florist favourites - especially for event flowers.

Pompons should face directly upwards from the stem - a ball on a stick. Bloom should be fully double and round like a golf ball. Centre should be closed, fully developed and as high as the surrounding face florets.

Petals should be uniform in size throughout the bloom and the tips of the florets should appear to be rounded. Back florets of the bloom should reflex to the stem.

Dahlia Sizes

The Australian Standard defines five distinct sizes used in dahlia showing:

  • Pompon - less than 50mm 

  • Miniature - under 120mm

  • Small - between 120mm - 160mm

  • Medium - between 160mm - 210mm

  • Large -between 210mm - 260mm

  • Giant - above 260mm