The dahlia flowers from July until the first frosts, at its best between August and October. There are small pompon varieties and others as large as a plate, in almost every colour, from peach and cream to burgundy. For many florists it is the flower of the Italian autumn.
It is delicate to transport and lasts only a few days once cut, so it is bought close to the event, often from local growers. It is a good alternative to chrysanthemums, which in Italy are linked to mourning. The guides to flowers in August, September and October place it in the calendar; the one on seasonal flowers compares it with the other flowers of the year; the one on the Langhe uses it for grape-harvest weddings.
What to ask: which varieties and colours are available on your date, whether they are grown nearby.
