Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Dahlia Dell?
The Dahlia Dell is a free public garden created by the Dahlia Society of California (San Francisco’s dahlia society). Members grow hundreds of varieties of dahlias for their beauty, competitions, hybridization, and education. Dahlias have been grown in Golden Gate Park for over 100 years. Society volunteers keep the tradition of growing San Francisco’s official flower alive for all to enjoy. Join us!
When is peak season?
July, August, and September are the best months to see blooms. The absolute peak is the last week of August-first week of September. Some of our growers let their sections go to seed starting in September, others keep deadheading and disbudding to prolong the season until Thanksgiving!
Are your dahlias for sale?
No and yes. We cannot sell or give you any blooms. Come to our annual Tuber + Plant Sale where you can buy many of the varieties we grow at the Dahlia Dell.
Are there picnic tables at the Dell?
Yes, there is one picnic table near the Dell. You can reserve it here. There are also a few adjacent benches and a lawn area for picnic blankets.
Who gets to name the dahlias?
The person who hybridized the dahlia gets to name it. For example, Lou Paradise, a superstar in our society, has hybridized many cultivars, such as Bea Paradise and Skip to My Lou. It takes several years to create a new dahlia. You’ll see many of Lou’s creations in the Dell.
Is there a restroom nearby?
Yes! There is a public restroom the other side of the Conservatory of Flowers.
Can I volunteer at the Dell?
Yes! Click here to learn more.
Who pays for the dahlias and supplies at the Dell?
The Dahlia Society of California (which has been the official name of San Francisco’s dahlia society since 1917) pays for everything you see, except the water. This includes irrigation equipment, tubers, fencing, soil amendments, etc. All of the hard work to make this fabulous public garden a reality is done by volunteers. If you would like to donate to the Dahlia Society of California, click here.