Dahlia Salsa

Dahlia 'Salsa' is a Dutch variety that is particularly suitable for providing cut flowers. It was obtained in 1989. The plant bears modest-sized scarlet red pompom flowers. They are produced in abundance on a solidly structured bush. They bloom from July to October, at the end of sturdy stems that withstand wind and hold up very well in bouquets.

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.

'Salsa' will measure about 1.2m (4ft) in height and 60cm (24in) in diameter after 3 to 4 months of cultivation. It is classified among the pompon dahlias, a horticultural category defined by the shape of the flower. In this group, the heads are very compact and of modest size, but are produced in abundance. The tubular ligules form a perfectly spherical inflorescence that has a cellular structure, like a beehive. The flowers of 'Salsa' are about 5.5cm (2in) in diameter. The ligules are scarlet red. The golden heart of the flower only appears late, just before withering. The flowering period is from July to October. The habit is bushy and upright. The branching, sturdy stems are hollow. The leaves are opposite, pinnately divided into 3 or 5 very toothed lobes. The leaves and stems are of a fairly dark green colour.

Remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms. You can use cut flowers to make colourful bouquets, combining them with other varieties.

'Salsa' pairs particularly well with white or pale-yellow flowers, and stands out beautifully against the green or purple foliage of fennel. In flower beds, this dahlia will create warm and bright spots in the company of echinaceas, daylilies, and asters, for example, which bloom at the same time. This variety is perfect in 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.