Glenmarc Connie

Glenmarc Connie is what happens when lavender decides it would rather keep everyone guessing.

Bred in Portland, Victoria, Australia by Alf Hardingham of Glenmarc Dahlias, this Australian beauty produces wonderfully full 3–4 inch Miniature Formal Decorative blooms in an elusive blend of lavender, lilac, mauve, and pink. Depending on the light and growing conditions, Connie can lean distinctly lavender one day and decidedly pink the next—which seems unnecessarily complicated for a flower, but here we are.

The tightly arranged petals create a beautifully symmetrical, polished bloom with enough depth of color to stand out without overpowering everything around it. Australian growers have valued Glenmarc Connie for both cutting and exhibition, and its long, strong stems make those tidy little blooms particularly useful in floral work.

Plants generally grow around 3.5–4.5 feet tall and have earned a reputation for good flower production. Australian growers also report that Connie can begin flowering relatively early and continue producing heavily through the season.

The coloring makes it especially useful in bouquets: lavender and lilac mingle with mauve-pink tones that can bridge softer blush palettes and richer purple ones without looking like somebody accidentally invited two different color schemes to dinner.

At a Glance

Origin: Australia
Breeder: Alf Hardingham
Breeding Program: Glenmarc Dahlias
Location: Portland, Victoria
Form: Miniature Formal Decorative
Classification: Commonly listed as 4008
Bloom Size: Approximately 3–4 inches
Plant Height: Approximately 3.5–4.5 feet
Color: Lavender, lilac, mauve, and pink
Stems: Long and strong
Best For: Cutting gardens, bouquets, floral design, and exhibition

Moose's Take

Glenmarc Connie can't decide whether she's lavender, lilac, mauve, or pink.

The Moose can't decide what he wants for lunch.

Finally, a dahlia I understand.