What is a Dahlia Tuber?

A quick lesson on dahlia tubers.

Both seeds and tubers are produced by dahlia plants. To get the same variety of dahlia, tubers are harvested, stored and replanted. Seeds from dahlia flowers may be planted, but will not produce true-to-variety plants.

The main parts of a tuber are labeled on the photo below. In order to be viable (grow a plant), a tuber must have at least 1 eye. New growth comes from the eye to become a new plant stem.

Dahlia tubers vary immensely. They may produce a vigorous plant whether they are the size of a AAA battery or 8 inches long. Whether they are skinny or fat. Whether they are a bit shriveled or smooth.

Here is an excellent blog post on tuber expectation from Flower Feather Farm.