Dahlia Sturm Kika

The Dahlias are tuberous plants of the large aster family, originally from the high plateaus of Mexico. At present, the thousands of horticultural varieties obtained by humans have invaded, much to our delight, gardens worldwide. Dahlias are classified according to the shape of their flower. 'Sturm Kika' is classified in the category of Decorative Dahlias, and in the sub-category of small-flowered Decorative Dahlias. In this group, the colourful ligules of the head are arranged regularly in a spiral, they can be bent towards the stem or even fringed, for example. In this variety, the heads measure 10-11 cm in diameter and their ligules are ovate, flat to concave, curved upwards. The flowering occurs from July to October-November. The plant will reach an average height of 1 m, and 50 to 60 cm in width, with a bushy and erect habit. The very branched stems are hollow and the leaves are opposite, pinnatisect, meaning they divide into 3 or 5 leaflets, which form very denticulate lobes. The leaves and stems are of a fairly light green.

To encourage repeat flowering and extend the flowering period, make sure to remove faded flowers. Even better, create appealing colourful bouquets by combining various varieties. Decorative Dahlias pair well with gauras and cleomes that will lighten their generous silhouette. 'Sturm Kika' flowers also make wonderful bouquets, with roses and grasses. The medium size of this variety makes it suitable for the centre of mixed borders, to structure a composition of bushes with foliage and lower plants. The flowering of Coneflowers is perfect alongside Dahlias, as they bloom simultaneously, as well as perennial salvias, for example.

A star plant in cottage gardens, Dahlias are undoubtedly pretty flowers, they are impeccable in flower beds but can also enhance the vegetable garden. In Mexico, this tuberous plant was initially 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.