Preview: Dahlia Source is in early development. Grower listings are samples and photos are illustrative.

    Illustrative dahlia photo

    Illustrative photos, not of Thomas Edison. Cultivar-accurate photos are coming.

    Thomas Edison

    Formal DecorativeMedium (B)Purple

    A formal decorative introduced in 1929 and a benchmark purple ever since. Its velvety, deep purple blooms run 6 to 8 inches across on neat, evenly layered heads. Who bred it is disputed: sources split between a Dutch origin and the Dahliadel nursery in the United States.

    Specifications

    Bloom Form
    Formal Decorative
    ADS Size Class
    Medium (B)
    Bloom Size
    6–8"
    Color
    Deep, velvety purple
    Height
    36–48"
    Introduced
    1929

    Growing Notes

    Plants grow 36–48 inches tall; give each one a stake. Deep purples can scorch at the petal tips in hard afternoon sun, so in hot climates a little afternoon shade keeps the color clean. For cutting, harvest when blooms are about three-quarters open.

    Where to Buy

    Checking stock at 7 nurseries...

    Sources: Dahlia Almanac, Dahlia Ridge. Specs no source confirms are left out rather than guessed.