Dahlia Karma Fuchsiana

Dahlia 'Karma Fuchsiana' is a stunning plant that doesn't go unnoticed. Its double flowers resemble waterlilies, with a coral-pink to intense fuchsia-pink colour. The centre is warmed by a slight touch of orange. The combination of shades is exceptional in its vivacity. The Karma series was initially developed for cut flowers. This medium-sized dahlia is a versatile plant, equally at home in flower beds as in containers on a patio. The stems are remarkably strong.

Dahlias belong to the Asteraceae family and are originally from the high plateaus of Mexico. There are currently thousands of horticultural varieties that have conquered gardens worldwide. They are tender perennials with fleshy tubers.

Dahlias are classified according to the shape of their heads. 'Karma Fuchsiana' belongs to the decorative group with waterlily flowers. The inflorescences are composed of several rows of almost flat outer ligules, barely curled upwards. The opulent heads measure 10cm (4in) in diameter. The outermost ligules are of a magnificent iridescent coral-pink colour, with orange at the base and towards the centre. The pink colour quickly dominates the orange, transforming the plant into a vibrant bouquet. The plant will reach 80cm (32in) in height and 50cm (20in) in width. It has a bushy and compact habit. Its sturdy stems do not require any staking. Its leaves are divided into denticulate lobes. Flowering begins in July and ends in October-November, if faded blooms are regularly removed or stems are cut to make bouquets.

Dahlias are stars of borders and ornamental gardens, confidently accompanying the most beautiful flowers. However, they are also appreciated alongside vegetable plants. In Mexico, this tuberous plant was first cultivated as a root vegetable for consumption. Its poor taste qualities quickly saw it categorised as an ornamental plant. Since then, the interest in their beautiful exuberance has never waned.

'Karma Fuchsiana' pairs particularly well with pink, plum, and violet flowers.