Dahlia Onesta

The 'Onesta' Decorative Dahlia forms a large camellia-like flower with good durability, whose intense dark lavender pink colour is warm and bright. The flowers are composed of numerous rows of relatively flat petals (ligules), so numerous that the centre of the flower cannot be distinguished. This modest-sized variety offers less wind resistance and will enhance flower beds with a very colourful touch.

Dahlias belong to the large Asteraceae family and are initially from the high plateaus of Mexico. Currently, the approximately 25,000 horticultural varieties obtained by humans have invaded, much to our delight, gardens worldwide. Dahlias are classified according to the shape of their heads. The 'Onesta' Dahlia is a decorative Dahlia with camellia-like flowers, also in the botanical classification of 'Arabian Nights'. The plant will reach a height of 70 cm (28in) and a width of 50 cm (20in). It has a bushy and erect habit, but its sturdy stems do not require staking. Its leaves are opposite and divided into very denticulate lobes. The leaves and stems are dark green. The flowering of this variety, if faded flowers are removed, begins in July and ends in October. The flower heads of decorative Dahlias with camellia-like flowers have wide and flattened outer ligules. The heads of the 'Onesta' variety are perfectly constructed and can reach up to 20 cm (8in) in diameter. They have a beautiful, intense medium pink colour, slightly deeper pink in the centre. The golden heart only appears late, just before fading.

'Onesta' pairs particularly well with pink and white flowers, especially the full-bodied corollas of old roses. In the background of flower beds, this Dahlia will create colourful spots with Echinaceas, Cosmos, or even Sedums and Japanese anemones. Some Pennisetum villosum add softness and delicacy to the decor. This variety is also well-suited for growing in large containers, easily embellishing the terrace or balcony.

Today, essential in gardens, Dahlias were initially cultivated in Mexico as a root vegetable. Their poor taste qualities quickly relegated them to ornamental plants. However, they are still welcome in vegetable gardens to bring some colour amidst the vegetables and increase the supply of flowers for bouquets.