Dahlia 'Kaiser Wilhelm': Rare 1892 Heirloom with Curled Custard-Yellow Petals

Of the roughly 10,000 dahlias introduced in the 1800s, only three survive—'Kaiser Wilhelm' (1892) is one. Its 3-inch flowers have neatly curled, soft custard-yellow petals brushed with burgundy and a green button eye reminiscent of an old rose. The plant reaches 5 feet tall, a living piece of garden history.

Culture & Care

• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained, humus-rich.
• Fertilizing: Weekly during growth.
• Support: May need staking.
• Winter: Lift tubers in fall; store in frost-free, ventilated location.

Propagation & Problems

Basal cuttings or division. Many pests and diseases common to dahlias.

At a Glance