Dahlia dissecta is found on rocky slopes and ledges in the Mexican states of Hidalgo and San Luis Potosí (a Rand McNally atlas has a one-page map that will show this), or more or less the east-central part of the country. However, they grow at elevations of about 6,500-8,000 feet up in the mountains. Therefore, they donÂt want too much heat. In OR, grow them like you would the cultivated dahlias being careful not to over-water them. In AZ, light shade might be best, but someone that grows dahlias locally might have the most useful information. They will also grow in a greenhouse but generally flower less. The flower heads are delicate but small, single, and range in color from light lavender to light purple. They will not cross with the cultivated dahlias because they have a different number of chromosomes. Where did you find it?

ah, that's good to know. maybe i'll leave it here with my mom instead of lugging it to arizona...where do you think it would be happiest?

i found it at a place called Deke's 7 Dees in portland, OR. must not have been very popular this year because they were all on clearance for a buck.

-ming

It would probably be happiest in OR. However, you might try it in AZ planted in a light-colored (for cooler roots) container on a lightly shaded patio. The foliage is quite attractive and the plant has a parsley/celery scent. Thanks for the info. on the source - I grow several "wild" species of Dahlia as part of my research in plant systematics.

MingTea,

I know this is a very old post, but I was curious how your D. dissecta fared. If you still have it, I would love to get cuttings or tubers (and am happy to pay for them).