Dahlia Edge of Joy

Dahlia 'Edge of Joy' is one of those new varieties of Decorative Dahlias that is quite unique, standing out for the shape and colour of its flowers. This one, truly original, produces not very large, well-opened, semi-double, swirling flowers, overall bicolored, in shades of white, pink, mauve, and deep purple, from fuchsia to intense magenta. They are carried well above the foliage by sturdy stems, perfect for cutting. And the spectacle of this flowering is constantly renewed from July until the frosts.

Dahlias are tuberous plants from the large Asteraceae family. They are originally from the high plateaus of Mexico. At present, the thousands of horticultural varieties obtained by humans have invaded, much to our delight, gardens all over the world. Dahlias are classified according to the shape of their flowers. 'Edge of Joy' is classified in the category of Decorative Dahlias. In this group, the coloured ligules of the head are regularly arranged in a spiral, they can be bent towards the stem or fringed, for example. In this variety, the heads measure only 8cm (3in) in diameter and their ligules are rather large, widely ovate, slightly twisted, and loosely arranged. The flowering takes place from July to October. Depending on the ripeness of the flower, the colour of the ligules or 'petals' varies from pure white to more or less mauve pink, and the magenta pattern is more or less extensive. The plant will reach a height of about 90cm (35in), and 50 to 60cm (20 to 24in) in width, with a bushy and erect habit. The very branching stems are hollow and the leaves are opposite, pinnately compound, meaning they are divided into 3 or 5 leaflets, which form very denticulate lobes. The leaves and stems are a medium green.

To promote flowering and extend the flowering period, be sure to remove faded flowers. Even better, regularly create attractive colourful bouquets by combining various varieties. Decorative Dahlias go well with Gauras and Cleomes, which will lighten their generous silhouette. The flowers of 'Edge of Joy' also make wonderful bouquets, with dahlias or purple roses, for example. The average size of this variety makes it suitable for the centre of mixed borders, to structure a composition of bushy plants and lower-growing plants. The flowering of Echinaceas is perfect to accompany that of Dahlias, as well as that of perennial salvias, for example.

As the star plant of cottage gardens, Dahlias are undoubtedly beautiful flowers. They are perfect in flower beds, but can also enhance the vegetable garden. In Mexico, this tuberous plant was first cultivated as a root vegetable for consumption. Its poor taste quickly relegated it to the status of an ornamental plant. Since then, the interest in their beautiful exuberance has never waned.