Cafe au Lait Dahlia Key Characteristics
Bloom Size: 6-8 inches in diameter
Bloom Size Classification: B (Medium) – This classification makes it versatile for use in both garden beds and as a cut flower.
Color: Soft blush, cream, and beige. The flowers are a beautiful blend of light, neutral tones, with hints of pink, peach, and soft brown hues, which resemble the color of a delicate cup of coffee with milk.
Cut Flower Quality: Excellent – Cafe au Lait is highly prized for its exceptional cut flower qualities.
Days to Bloom: 80 to 100 days after planting.
Flower Form: ID (Informal Decorative) – This dahlia form has an irregular arrangement and wavy, twisted, or curled petals. These dahlias have a softer, more romantic appearance than formal decorative dahlias.
Plant Height: 4 to 5 feet
Plant Spacing: 18 to 24 inches
Pinching Height: Pinch the main stem when it reaches 12 to 18 inches tall to encourage bushier growth.
Year Introduced: 1968
Harvesting and Vase Life
Harvesting: For optimal quality, harvest when the blooms are fully open but still fresh and vibrant, with the petals in their full color and form but not yet wilting. The best time to cut the flowers is early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler and the blooms are dry and flowers are most hydrated. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to cut the stems at a 45-degree angle, leaving at least 6 inches of stem for easier arrangement and better water uptake.
Vase Life: Dahlias typically last 3 to 5 days, but some varieties can last up to 11 days in a vase with proper care. Place them in clean, cool water, and ensure that the stems are submerged. To extend vase life, change the water every 2–3 days and trim the stems slightly at an angle with each water change. Keep flowers out of direct sunlight. Using a floral preservative can help keep the flowers fresh and vibrant for a longer period. Remove any submerged leaves to prevent bacterial growth and ensure that the water stays clean, which will help prolong the life of the flowers.
