Dahlias Forever Stamps
The U.S. Postal Service celebrates summer's floral beauty with a vibrant set of Dahlias Forever stamps, showcasing the rich color and form of this beloved bloom.
Photographed in natural light by Denise Ippolito, the stamps feature close-up images of dahlias in shades of pink, red, white, yellow, and magenta. Each blossom captures the flower's intricate detail and striking symmetry.
History & Popularity
Native to Mexico and Central America, dahlias were once cultivated in Aztec gardens and later introduced to Europe in the late 18th century. Their ability to hybridize easily led to an explosion of new varieties, especially during the Victorian era. By the 19th century, dahlias had taken root in American gardens.
Known for their diversity, dahlias come in nearly every color except true blue and black (with black dahlias being a deep burgundy). Their unique genetics with eight sets of chromosomes make them prolific and endlessly variable.
Blooming Beauty
From star-like petals to dense pompom forms, dahlias bring dynamic shapes and colors to gardens and floral displays. Their long blooming season, stretching into the first frost, has helped spark a renewed appreciation worldwide.
Designed by Greg Breeding, the Dahlias Forever stamps are issued in booklets of 20 and will always hold the value of the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate.
