Dahlia: Verrone's Obsidian

Striking deep black orchid with very fine cream veins. The Americans classify this as a Star dahlia. I can see why. It stands out from 100m away for me with it's rich butter center. Superlatives aside, the bees fight over these 12cm targets atop 30cm stems on a bushy medium green leafed plant growing 1.6m tall. 

Short vase life of 3-5 days but who cares? Such an different garden statement and pure energy for the bees. Very reliable fast grower. Flowers December to May here in Auckland. 

(Verrone, USA, 2011)