Kaiser Wilhelm

Kaiser Wilhelm has a distinctly painterly streak, and he brings the sort of patterning that photographs never quite capture the same way twice. Red-yellow blend, with tightly rolled petals forming a rounded, substantial bloom.

🕯️ History & Preservation

Introduced in 1881 by pioneering German dahlia breeder Christian Deegen, Kaiser Wilhelm is widely described as the oldest German dahlia cultivar still in commerce. Keeping a living piece of dahlia history like this in cultivation is exactly the kind of preservation I hope Hedge & Alchemy can help carry forward.

📋 Cultivar Notes

• Breeder / Hybridizer: Christian Deegen
• Year of Introduction: 1881
• Origin: Germany
• Form: Ball (BA)
• ADS Classification Number: 6013 (Ball / Dark Blend).
• 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: Not confirmed as ADS-registered. It may still be useful in garden displays or classes allowed by a local schedule, but current show eligibility should be checked before entry.

🌸 In the Garden

• Bloom: Blooms are reported at approximately 3.3 inches. The ball flowers are described as red-yellow blend, with tightly rolled petals forming a rounded, substantial bloom.
• Plant Height & Habit: Approximately 4 feet tall, with an upright, branching habit. Stake as needed for height and bloom weight.
• Growing Notes: Usually around 4 feet tall. Pinch early for branching and give solid support once the plant is carrying flowers.
• Tuber Yield: Not yet tracked at Hedge & Alchemy.