Research on dahlia, the national flower of Mexico

Dahlia is an important plant in the world as pot plant and cut flower, it is native to Mexico, were it is a source of food, medicine and ornamental value. In 1963 it was declared as the National Flower of Mexico. In the year 2000, a national program of collection, conservation and exploitation of dahlia species was started. Currently 29 species are now in the National Center for Genetic Resources. A group of researchers from different universities is engaged in a study of the morphological and chemical characterization of dahlia species to develop new cultivars for ornamental, nutritional and medicinal use. The Mexican Dahlia Association promotes the cultivation and conservation of species in rural areas of the country, especially in temperate climates, where species and cultivars are grown to obtain high yields of tuberous roots and flowers for their consumption as a functional food, as well as for the preparation of other products such as honey, jam, flour or cookies. Special attention is the study and consumption of tuberous roots for people suffering from diabetics, because it helps them to regulate blood glucose levels, and lows cholesterol and triglycerides. Dahlia coccinea and Dahlia campanulata are the most interesting species for high yields of tubers and inulin.