Dahlias Aren't Just Pretty—Here's the Powerful Meaning They Hold

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Dahlias Aren't Just Pretty—Here's the Powerful Meaning They Hold originally appeared on Dengarden.
As a longtime dahlia enthusiast and grower, I've always been captivated by the different feelings that dahlias can evoke. From the sense of calm exuded by white dahlias to the cheerful disposition of yellow dahlias, it's easy to see why dahlias are an enduring late summer favorite.
Each color dahlia carries its own meaning, symbolism and emotions that makes it a flower lover's go-to for the garden or bouquets time and time again. Learn the story behind various dahlia colors as flower experts weigh in on their use, representation and personality.
Red dahlias are all about strength and power, says Althea Wiles, founder and creative director at Rose of Sharon Floral Design Studio, which are perfect for making bold statements.
'I've used them in arrangements for business openings and graduations where people want to show they mean business,' she says.
Courtney Sixx, founder and co-designer at Bouquet Box, says red dahlia energy is a cross between a romantic candlelit meal and classic Hollywood. 'Whether you're looking for blazing romance or a dash of classic grandeur, red dahlias are the epitome of passion,' she describes.
Adrian Aviles, owner of Athletic Club Flower Shop, believes red dahlias also speak to courage. 'They feel like a heart-wide-open kind of flower,' he explains.
Wiles says dramatic and rich burgundy dahlias are perfect for fall weddings.
'They represent enduring love and passion, and they photograph beautifully against autumn backdrops,' she describes. 'I've used them in bridal bouquets where the couple wanted something rich and romantic."
Their more regal cousin, purple dahlias, add a vibrant touch to any garden or bouquet.
'Purple is enigmatic, royal and slightly empathetic,' Sixx says of the wide array of purple dahlia varieties. 'Opt for an individual who is proud of their individuality.'
Flower experts also believe there's something mystical about these darker colorways.
'Even the deep purples and almost black varieties feel mysterious and a little magical,' Aviles says, 'as if they are keeping secrets.'
For many, yellow dahlias symbolize a fresh start. "Yellow dahlias bring joy and new beginnings to mind,' Wiles says. 'I remember using them for a young couple's first home blessing."
They also have an enticing, sunny disposition that's hard not to love.
'Yellow and orange dahlias are pure joy, like a late afternoon sunbeam,' Aviles says. 'To me, they represent optimism and zest for life.'
Pink dahlias exude a softness and elegance that makes them one of the most popular dahlia colorways. Whether you opt for light pink or a rich hot pink, it's tough to go wrong with this color.
"Pink dahlias lean more toward grace and kindness,' Wiles says, 'and are really sweet for mother-daughter occasions or thanking someone who's been particularly thoughtful."
Sixx is a big fan of weaving pink dahlias into bouquets for a pop of color or soothing accent. 'For delicate or whimsical touches, or to tone down strong designs, I adore utilizing them,' she says.
White dahlias are a classic colorway with a variety of uses. 'Their understated strength is ideal,' Sixx says. 'White dahlias are never dull and exude an air of grace.'
Wiles adds that white dahlias are stunning for brides who want classic elegance with a 'bit more personality' than roses. 'They symbolize new beginnings and purity, but they've got this fullness that says you're not afraid to take up space and be noticed,' she says.
No matter which colorway you go with, each dahlia variety carries its own meaning and symbolism that makes these graceful and captivating late summer beauties so enticing.
'Not only are they bold, but they're also complex and full of quiet drama,' Aviles says. 'There is something powerful about how they bloom so fully just as other flowers begin to fade.'
Wiles believes dahlias are like people. 'They come in all these different personalities, but they're all part of the same beautiful family,' she says. 'That's probably why they've come to represent diversity and standing out from the crowd. The flower itself seems to say, 'This matters.''Dahlias Aren't Just Pretty—Here's the Powerful Meaning They Hold first appeared on Dengarden on Jul 16, 2025
This story was originally reported by Dengarden on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.