Amber Queen

Amber Queen feels made for late summer, and she brings enough warmth to brighten a bouquet without needing neon color. Amber-orange, with small, densely rolled petals arranged into a precise sphere.

Bloomed at Hedge & Alchemy in our 2026 garden.

📖 From the journal of Hedge & Alchemy

I just had to grow a variety with my name Amber in it! She is dainty, beautifully colored, and each petal carries the prettiest orange stripe. Great form, and I especially love that she is an heirloom.

🕯️ History & Preservation

Amber Queen is a WWII-era heirloom introduced in 1945 by English breeder Harry Stredwick, whose family had been introducing dahlias since the 1890s. She feels especially personal to me because of the name, but she also represents something I care deeply about: keeping historic cultivars alive and available for future generations.

📋 Cultivar Notes

• Breeder / Hybridizer: Harry Stredwick
• Year of Introduction: 1945
• Origin: United Kingdom
• Form: Pompon (P)
• ADS Classification Number: 6211 (Pompon / Bronze)
• Cut Flower Status: Good. The form lends itself well to bouquet work; vase life can vary with harvest stage and conditions.
• Show & Exhibition Flower Status: Potentially. Confirm the current ADS listing and class before entering.

🌸 In the Garden

• Bloom: Blooms are reported at approximately 2 inches. The pompon flowers are described as amber-orange, with small, densely rolled petals arranged into a precise sphere.
• Plant Height & Habit: Approximately 3 feet tall, with an upright, branching habit. Stake as needed for height and bloom weight.
• Growing Notes: Usually around 3 feet tall. Pinch early for branching and give solid support once the plant is carrying flowers.
• Tuber Yield: Not yet tracked at Hedge & Alchemy.