Unapologetically showy and flamboyant, anemone-flowered dahlias such as Dahlia 'Speech' are the birds of paradise of this genus. The powder puff centre of this bright crimson variety consists of many densely packed, tubular florets, and is surrounded by large petals with feathery white appendages. We have seen Dahlia 'Speech' used to stunning effect as the only red in a purple scheme, woven through plants such as Verbena bonariensis, Eryngium 'Victory Blue', and Salvia 'Amethyst', with the buff-coloured grass Pennisetum 'Fairy Tales' to add lightness and movement. Divine!   

The flowers of Dahlia 'Speech' are attractive to pollinators and provide a welcome source of nectar from early summer until the first frosts. They are also highly valued by florists due to a particularly impressive vase life. Picking first thing in the morning or later in the evening (when moisture levels are high) will help cut flowers last even longer.