Dahlia imperialis

>Susan-
>
>I just did some reading about dahlias and I notice that they are from Central
>America from mountainous areas....that would be the reason I cannot grow them
>here.
>
>Kembelry McLain
>Katy, Texas Zone 9
>


One of the native dahlias found in Central America is Dahlia imperialis, the so-called Tree Dahlia (named, I guess, because it can get quite tall). The flowers are relatively small, at least compared to the dinner-plate cultivars we commonly see - about 3-4 inches in diameter and usually purple, yellow or white.

Two years ago, while travelling in Costa Rica, I brought back a specimen growing by the side of the road in a very damp area, but because of our short season here in Wisconsin, have been unable to get it to bloom. If there is anyone that would like to try this unusual item, please e-mail me privately. You can see a photo (from last year) at:
http://www.execpc.com/~llmen/dimperialis1.jpg

I don't know if there will be enough for more than just 1 division, and I would prefer that it go to someone in at least Zone 7 or greater, in order for the thing to have a chance to bloom.

Any takers?
Don Martinson
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin (Milwaukee suburb)
USDA Zone 5 (-10 to -20F)
AHS Heat Zone #4, Map at: ( http://www.suite101.com/userfiles/79/hz1024.jpg )
mailto:llmen@execpc.com

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