Café au Lait Informal Decorative

Café au Lait Informal Decorative 

Few flowers are as iconic as the Café au Lait Dahlia, a must-have for gardeners and floral designers alike. Known for its giant, fully double blooms in creamy ivory, blush, and soft mocha tones, this decorative dahlia brings romance and sophistication to any setting. Each flower is uniquely shaded — sometimes more blush, sometimes more latte — making every bloom a work of art. With its large, show-stopping size and lush form, Café au Lait is a statement-maker in both the garden and the vase.

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Variety Details

• Form: Informal Decorative

• Bloom Size: A (8–10 inches, sometimes larger)

• Plant Height: Tall (>48")

• Stem Strength: Moderate

• Unicorn Status: Common 

• Primary Color: Cream / Ivory

• Secondary Color: Blush / Mocha tones

• Plant ID: 

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A Bit of History

Introduced in France in the mid-20th century, Café au Lait has become one of the most sought-after dahlias worldwide. Its dreamy color palette made it a favorite for luxury weddings and editorial floral design, often referred to as the "queen of dahlias." Despite its delicate appearance, Café au Lait grows vigorously, rewarding gardeners with an abundance of oversized blooms from midsummer until frost.

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Ideal For

• Wedding bouquets – beloved for its soft, romantic shades

• Cutting gardens – produces large, breathtaking blooms for arrangements

• Borders – creates dramatic focal points in late-summer displays

• Photo-worthy gardens – perfect for gardeners who want a truly Instagram-famous flower

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Pairs Well With

Café au Lait Rosé Dahlia – for a pinker twist on the iconic look

Jowey Winnie Dahlia – a compact ball form in warm pink that balances Café au Lait’s size

Dusty Miller or Lavender – soft foliage contrasts beautifully with the blooms’ creamy tones