It can be an extremely difficult task to distinguish a chrysanthemum from a dahlia. They are very similar and are often confused with each other. But with the right detailed knowledge, you can distinguish between the two late summer bloomers!
How to distinguish chrysanthemums and dahlias?
Chrysanthemums and dahlias differ in flower size, leaf shape and growth: Chrysanthemums have smaller flowers, jagged leaves and usually only grow to a height of 60 cm. Dahlias, on the other hand, have larger flowers, pinnate leaves and can reach up to 180 cm.
How do the flowers of chrysanthemums and dahlias differ?
Chrysanthemums usually havesmaller flowers than dahlias. Nevertheless, they are often used as cut flowers because of their great colors and long shelf life in the vase.
In addition, many chrysanthemum flowers emit a scent. However, dahlia flowers have no scent.
In general, however, it is difficult to distinguish between the two plants based solely on their flowers. The similarity is very high. It is therefore safer to examine additional features.
Do chrysanthemums grow differently than dahlias?
Even when growing, chrysanthemums tend to remainsmaller than most dahlias. There are numerous dahlias that reach a height of 180 cm. The majority of chrysanthemums only grow to a height of 60 cm.
How do the leaves of dahlias and chrysanthemums differ?
The leaves of dahlias are significantlylarger than those of chrysanthemums. They are pinnate and, in the majority of varieties, have a smooth edge. Chrysanthemum leaves are smaller and their shape is vaguely reminiscent of coriander or flat-leaf parsley. The leaf edge is notched to serrated.
Where do dahlias and chrysanthemums come from?
Dahlias find their home inMexicoand share Guatemala, while chrysanthemums come fromChina. Based on their origin, both plants have different requirements for their location.
What location do chrysanthemums and dahlias need?
Chrysanthemums, unlike dahlias, are not sun worshipers, but prefer acool location that is not too sunny. They tolerate heat and drought poorly, whereas dahlias can handle these extremes without any problems due to their origin. Dahlias and chrysanthemums are therefore difficult to plant in close proximity.
Are chrysanthemums more frost hardy than dahlias?
Chrysanthemums can spend the winter outdoors as they can handlefrost well. But it is still advisable to protect them. Chrysanthemums in pots should be overwintered and outdoor chrysanthemums can be protected from lower temperatures with a layer of brushwood. Dahlias, on the other hand, are not hardy and die with the first frost. To get a dahlia safely through the winter, you should dig up its tuber in autumn and overwinter in a frost-free place.
Tip
Some are poisonous, others are edible
You may have heard that dahlias are edible. That's right. But just don't confuse them with chrysanthemums if you plan to use dahlias in the kitchen. Chrysanthemums are poisonous!
