Biennial herb to 1.2 m tall, glabrous. Stems erect, simple or little-branched. Basal leaves linear, to 30 cm long, to 1.5 cm wide, grass-like, somewhat sheathing at base. Stem leaves smaller, stem-clasping. Capitula to 3 cm across; spring to summer. Florets pale to deep purple. Achenes 20-30 mm long, outer ones rough. Pappus of 2 rows of feathery bristles.

Europe, Asia

Source: Lawson, L.; Spencer, R. (2002). Dahlia. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 4. Flowering plants. Dicotyledons. Part 3. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.