Dahlias are admired for their bold colours and intricate petal arrangements, making them a favourite among gardeners and floral enthusiasts. However, many flowers that look like dahlias offer the same striking visual appeal, adding variety to gardens and floral displays. 

This guide explores stunning blooms that share dahlia-like features, helping you choose the perfect floral additions for your garden or bouquets.

1. Double Peonies

Double peonies are among the most sought-after flowers for those who love the lush, full-bodied look of dahlias. These stunning blooms feature layers upon layers of delicate petals that create a soft, rounded shape, making them a popular choice for both floral arrangements and garden displays. 

Peonies come in a wide range of colours, from soft pastels like blush pink and creamy white to deeper hues such as rich reds and purples, allowing them to fit seamlessly into different floral themes. Their voluminous petals and ruffled appearance mimic the intricate details of dahlias, making them an excellent alternative.

One of the reasons double peonies are so beloved is their strong fragrance, which adds an extra layer of charm to any bouquet. While dahlias are usually unscented, peonies provide a delightful scent, making them perfect for romantic floral arrangements or as a statement flower in centrepieces. 

These blooms typically appear in late spring to early summer, thriving in cooler temperatures and well-draining soil. Though peonies have a shorter blooming period compared to dahlias, they make up for it with their hardy perennial nature, meaning they return year after year with proper care.

2. Double Zinnias

Double zinnias are a fantastic option for those looking for bright, cheerful flowers that resemble dahlias. Known for their bold colours and densely packed petals, these flowers add an instant pop of vibrancy to any garden or floral arrangement. 

Unlike single-petal zinnias, double-flowering varieties produce multiple layers of petals, creating a rounded, full-bodied bloom that closely mimics dahlias. 

They are available in a stunning array of shades, including red, yellow, orange, pink, and even purple, making them a versatile choice for those who love colourful floral displays.

One of the biggest advantages of double zinnias is their hardy and low-maintenance nature. Unlike dahlias, which require tuber storage and careful care, zinnias are fast-growing annuals that thrive in warm climates, making them ideal for Singapore’s tropical weather. 

They bloom continuously from early summer until late autumn, ensuring a season-long supply of fresh flowers. Their resistance to heat and humidity makes them a great alternative for those who struggle to grow dahlias in warmer regions.

3. African Marigold

African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are a fantastic alternative to dahlias, especially for those who want a low-maintenance, long-lasting bloom. 

These striking flowers are known for their large, pom-pom-like heads, which are densely packed with ruffled petals, giving them a shape and fullness that closely resembles dahlias. 

They come in rich golden, orange, and yellow tones, making them a perfect choice for brightening up gardens, floral arrangements, and decorative borders. Their bold, sun-kissed hues make them a popular choice for festive celebrations, weddings, and even religious ceremonies.

One of the biggest advantages of African marigolds is their hardy nature. Unlike dahlias, which require careful tuber storage and seasonal replanting, African marigolds are easy to grow from seeds and thrive in warm, tropical climates like Singapore’s. 

They flourish in full sun and prefer well-draining soil, making them ideal for both home gardens and potted displays. Once established, these flowers are incredibly drought-resistant, needing only occasional watering, which makes them a great option for busy individuals or those new to gardening.

Another reason why African marigolds are a great substitute for dahlias is their natural pest-repelling properties. Their strong scent is known to deter common garden pests such as aphids, nematodes, and mosquitoes, making them a functional as well as an ornamental choice. 

They are also great companion plants, helping to protect vegetable gardens from harmful insects while attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

4. Double Anemones

Double anemones (Anemone coronaria) are a delicate and elegant alternative to dahlias, offering the same multi-layered petal structure with a soft, whimsical appeal. 

Unlike dahlias, which have a more structured bloom, double anemones have a slightly airy, wind-swept look, giving them an almost floating effect in floral arrangements. 

Their petal layers are arranged in a cup-like formation, surrounding a dark or contrasting centre, which creates a stunning visual contrast. 

Available in a variety of colours such as white, pink, red, and purple, these flowers easily complement different floral themes, from romantic bouquets to contemporary arrangements.

One of the standout features of double anemones is their lightweight, fluttering petals, which give them an almost ethereal presence. 

These flowers are particularly popular for wedding bouquets and floral centrepieces, as they add a soft, natural charm that pairs beautifully with roses, lisianthus, and even peonies. 

Unlike dahlias, which can sometimes feel heavy in an arrangement, double anemones provide a lighter, airier touch, making them perfect for more delicate or minimalist floral styles.

5. Double Chrysanthemums

Double chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.) are one of the closest floral lookalikes to dahlias, thanks to their dense petal structure and striking colours. These flowers feature layers of delicate, overlapping petals, creating a full, rounded bloom similar to pom-pom or ball dahlias. 

Available in shades of red, pink, yellow, white, and purple, double chrysanthemums add vibrancy to both garden displays and floral arrangements. Their rich hues make them a favourite for autumn and festive decorations, as well as a popular choice in floral tributes and celebrations.

One of the biggest advantages of double chrysanthemums is their long-lasting nature. Unlike dahlias, which require more delicate care and tuber storage, chrysanthemums are hardy perennials that bloom annually with the right conditions. 

They prefer cooler temperatures and well-draining soil, making them ideal for Singapore’s tropical climate when grown in partially shaded areas. Regular pruning and deadheading (removing wilted flowers) help to encourage continuous blooming, ensuring a fresh display for months.

Chrysanthemums also hold cultural significance in many parts of Asia, symbolising longevity, joy, and rejuvenation. They are frequently used in Chinese and Japanese floral traditions, adding a timeless elegance to bouquets and seasonal arrangements. 

Their resilience and extended bloom period make them perfect for anyone looking for a long-lasting, dahlia-like alternative without the high maintenance.

6. Gerbera Daisy

Gerbera daisies (Gerbera jamesonii) are a fantastic alternative to dahlias, particularly for those who love bright, cheerful flowers with a structured petal arrangement. 

While they don’t have the dense layers of some dahlia varieties, their large, rounded blooms and bold colours make them a striking choice for floral displays. Available in a wide spectrum of colours, including red, orange, pink, yellow, and white, gerbera daisies bring a lively touch to bouquets and garden beds. 

Their radiant, symmetrical petals closely resemble single-form dahlias, making them an excellent choice for those who appreciate structured yet vibrant blooms.

One of the standout qualities of gerbera daisies is their sturdy, long-lasting petals, which hold their shape well in both fresh and dried floral arrangements. 

Unlike dahlias, which can be delicate and sensitive to humidity, gerbera daisies are remarkably hardy and thrive in warm climates, making them well-suited to Singapore’s weather. 

They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, with moderate watering to prevent root rot. Their ability to bloom year-round with proper care makes them a fantastic alternative for those who want a consistent supply of dahlia-like flowers.

Gerbera daisies are also known for their air-purifying properties, as they help remove toxins from indoor spaces, making them a great option for home and office floral arrangements. 

They are commonly used in weddings, birthday bouquets, and celebratory floral gifts due to their bright, uplifting presence. Their versatility means they pair beautifully with roses, chrysanthemums, or lilies, creating visually stunning arrangements that mimic the impact of dahlias.

7. Persian Buttercups

Persian buttercups (Ranunculus asiaticus) are a delightful alternative to dahlias, offering tightly packed, ruffled petals that create a lush, rounded bloom. Their intricate petal arrangement closely resembles smaller dahlia varieties, making them a favourite for elegant floral designs and bridal bouquets. 

Available in a wide range of colours, including soft pastels like blush pink and peach, as well as bolder shades like deep red and golden yellow, Persian buttercups provide the same rich colour diversity as dahlias.

One of the standout features of Persian buttercups is their light, airy petals, which create a delicate, almost paper-like appearance. Despite their fragile look, these flowers are remarkably long-lasting, both in the garden and as cut flowers. 

They bloom in late winter to early spring, making them an excellent seasonal alternative to dahlias, which thrive in summer. While dahlias need tubers to regrow each year, Persian buttercups grow from small corms, which can be replanted seasonally for continuous blooms.

8. African Daisy 4D Series

The African Daisy 4D Series (Osteospermum '4D Series') is an eye-catching variety that brings a unique and structured bloom to floral displays, making it a perfect collarette dahlia look alike. 

Unlike traditional African daisies, the 4D series features quilled petals surrounding a prominent, layered centre, mimicking the intricate patterns found in collarette dahlia varieties. This distinct petal shape gives the flowers an almost sculptural quality, making them a striking addition to both gardens and bouquets.

One of the biggest attractions of the 4D African daisies is their continuous blooming cycle. Unlike dahlias, which have a specific growing season, these flowers bloom consistently throughout the year, providing an endless supply of vibrant colour. 

They come in shades of purple, pink, white, yellow, and blue, often with contrasting centres, creating a bold, dynamic look. Their colour-changing properties—where the flower may shift hues slightly throughout the day—add an extra layer of visual interest.

These daisies thrive in full sun and prefer well-draining soil, making them ideal for Singapore’s warm and humid climate. They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal care, making them a perfect choice for busy gardeners or those new to planting flowers. 

Unlike dahlias, which require regular deadheading to encourage new blooms, the 4D African daisies self-clean, meaning spent flowers naturally fall off, promoting continuous flowering without extra effort.

9. Chocolate Cosmos

Chocolate cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) is a truly unique dahlia alternative, known for its deep red to almost black petals and its rare chocolate scent. These velvety flowers add a dramatic flair to any floral arrangement, making them an excellent choice for moody, elegant bouquets or evening-themed displays. 

Their rich, dark hues closely resemble deep-coloured dahlias, particularly the Black Satin and Rip City dahlia varieties. The almost velvet-like texture of their petals enhances their luxurious appeal, making them perfect for sophisticated floral designs.

One of the most fascinating aspects of chocolate cosmos is their distinct fragrance, which has subtle notes of cocoa and vanilla. Unlike dahlias, which are typically unscented, this flower brings an extra sensory element to floral arrangements. 

The scent becomes more noticeable in the late afternoon and evening, making it a great addition to night-time events or candlelit dinner settings.

10. Japanese Anemone

Japanese anemones (Eriocapitella hupehensis or Anemone hupehensis) offer a graceful, understated beauty that closely resembles the simpler, single-petal varieties of dahlias. 

Unlike the dense, layered petals of pom-pom or dinner-plate dahlias, Japanese anemones feature open, cup-shaped flowers with a prominent central stamen cluster, creating an effortlessly elegant and airy look. 

Their soft pastel tones and delicate petal texture give them a natural charm that works well in both garden landscapes and floral arrangements.

Japanese anemones bloom in late summer through autumn, bringing colour to gardens when many other flowers have faded. Their slender stems and gentle swaying movement make them a favourite for wildflower-inspired floral designs. 

Available in shades of soft pink, white, and lavender, they are often compared to the collarette dahlia varieties, which also have a distinct central disc surrounded by delicate outer petals.

In floral arrangements, Japanese anemones add a light, airy quality, making them an ideal complement to more structured flowers like roses, chrysanthemums, or dahlias. 

Their long, wiry stems create a beautiful, natural flow in bouquets, while their simple, open-faced design adds a relaxed yet refined touch. They also have a good vase life of around 5-7 days, making them a reliable option for home décor and event styling.

11. Black-Eyed Susan

Black-Eyed Susans (Rudbeckia hirta) are a vibrant, sun-loving flower that shares a similar bold, eye-catching appeal with single-flowered dahlia varieties. 

These flowers are easily recognised by their striking dark brown to black central cone, which contrasts beautifully with their bright golden-yellow petals. Their simple yet striking appearance makes them a popular choice for wildflower arrangements, cottage gardens, and rustic floral displays.

Unlike dahlias, which require regular replanting, Black-Eyed Susans are hardy perennials or biennials, depending on the variety. They are extremely low-maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil with minimal watering. 

Their drought tolerance makes them ideal for Singapore’s warm climate, as they can withstand heat and humidity much better than dahlias. Once established, these flowers self-seed, meaning they will continue to bloom year after year with little effort from gardeners.

Black-Eyed Susans are also excellent pollinator plants, attracting butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects to the garden. 

Their long, sturdy stems and vibrant golden colour make them a fantastic addition to floral arrangements, where they provide a bright, cheerful contrast to deeper-hued flowers like chocolate cosmos or deep red dahlias. 

12. Painted Daisy

Painted daisies (Tanacetum coccineum) bring a joyful burst of colour to gardens and floral arrangements, making them an excellent playful alternative to dahlias. 

These flowers are characterised by their multi-coloured, daisy-like petals that often feature contrasting colour rings, surrounding a bold yellow or dark centre. 

Their resemblance to single dahlias comes from their radiant petal structure, which creates a similar starburst effect. Painted daisies are available in shades of red, pink, yellow, white, and purple, making them a versatile choice for floral designs.

One of the biggest advantages of painted daisies is their long flowering season, which lasts from late spring to mid-summer. They prefer full sun and well-draining soil, making them a great option for Singapore’s tropical climate, as long as they receive moderate watering and good air circulation. 

While dahlias require tuber storage and seasonal replanting, painted daisies can be grown as perennials in cooler climates or annuals in warmer regions.

13. Garden Roses

Garden roses (Rosa spp.) are a timeless and elegant alternative to dahlias, offering the same lush, layered petal structure that gives bouquets a luxurious, full-bodied appearance. 

While standard roses have a more defined shape, certain garden rose varieties, such as David Austin roses, cabbage roses, and English roses, boast dense, ruffled petals that closely resemble dahlias. 

These roses bloom in a wide range of colours, from soft pastels like blush pink, peach, and cream to deep, rich shades of red, burgundy, and even lavender, making them versatile for any floral arrangement.

One of the biggest advantages of garden roses over dahlias is their availability throughout the year. Dahlias are highly seasonal and may not always be accessible, whereas garden roses can be found in most florist shops and garden centres year-round. 

Their fragrance is another key distinction—many garden roses have a sweet, romantic scent, whereas dahlias are generally unscented. This makes them an ideal substitute for anyone wanting both beauty and fragrance in a floral display.

14. Bahlia Mums

Bahlia mums (Chrysanthemum spp.) are a type of chrysanthemum that closely resembles dahlias, thanks to their large, rounded blooms and dense petal structure. The name “Bahlia” comes from their similarity to dahlias, making them a popular seasonal alternative, especially in autumn floral designs. 

These flowers feature tightly packed petals that form a nearly spherical bloom, much like pom-pom or ball dahlias. Available in a range of warm tones such as red, orange, yellow, pink, and white, they add a bold and structured look to bouquets and garden displays.

One of the key benefits of Bahlia mums is their hardy nature and extended bloom time. Unlike dahlias, which require tuber storage and seasonal replanting, Bahlia mums are perennials that can bloom year after year with proper care. 

They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both cool and warm climates, making them well-suited to Singapore’s weather when grown in partial shade with well-draining soil. Their resistance to pests and diseases also makes them a low-maintenance option compared to more delicate dahlia varieties.

15. Football Mums

Football mums (Chrysanthemum morifolium) are a spectacular alternative to dahlias, featuring large, globe-shaped blooms with densely packed petals that create a voluminous, eye-catching floral display. 

These chrysanthemums are often used in formal floral arrangements, wedding bouquets, and event centrepieces, thanks to their bold presence and full-bodied shape. 

Resembling dinner plate dahlias, football mums can be found in a variety of colours, including white, yellow, orange, pink, purple, and red, making them a versatile choice for seasonal and celebratory floral designs.

One of the biggest advantages of football mums is their long-lasting nature. Unlike dahlias, which require careful seasonal replanting, football mums are perennial flowers that bloom reliably every year with proper care. 

They thrive in cooler temperatures and well-draining soil, but they can also be grown successfully in Singapore’s tropical climate when provided with partial shade and regular watering. Their strong stems and large blooms make them ideal for cut flowers, as they remain fresh and vibrant in vases for up to two weeks.

16. Poppies

Poppies (Papaver spp.) may have a simpler structure than dahlias, but certain varieties—such as double poppies and peony poppies—offer a soft, ruffled petal arrangement that complements the fullness of dahlias in floral arrangements. 

Their delicate, tissue-like petals create a light and airy feel, making them an excellent contrast to the more structured forms of dahlias, chrysanthemums, and football mums. 

Poppies are available in a range of bright, cheerful colours, including red, orange, pink, white, and yellow, adding a playful and dynamic touch to bouquets.

Unlike dahlias, which have thicker, robust stems, poppies have thin, wiry stems, giving them a natural, wildflower-like movement in floral arrangements. This makes them particularly suited for bohemian or rustic-style bouquets, where their graceful swaying effect adds softness and charm. 

Some double-flowered poppy varieties, such as Papaver paeoniflorum (peony poppy), have densely layered petals that closely resemble dahlias, making them a great substitute in garden beds or floral designs.

17. Snapdragons

Snapdragons (Antirrhinum majus) are a striking addition to any floral arrangement, offering vertical height and structured elegance that pairs beautifully with the full, rounded blooms of dahlias. 

Unlike dahlias, which have a more compact, bushy growth, snapdragons grow in tall spikes covered with clusters of vibrant flowers, making them perfect for taller floral arrangements, garden borders, and cascading bouquets. 

Their elongated, dramatic shape creates a stunning contrast against the more rounded, layered petals of dahlias, adding texture and dimension to floral designs.

One of the biggest advantages of snapdragons is their wide range of colours, which includes white, yellow, pink, red, orange, purple, and even bicoloured varieties. 

This makes them a versatile choice for complementing dahlia arrangements, as they can either blend seamlessly with similar tones or add contrast with a pop of colour. Their unique, tubular petals open in sequence from the bottom up, creating a gradual blooming effect that extends their flowering period.

18. Lisianthus

Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum) is one of the most elegant and dahlia-like flowers, especially in its double varieties, which feature gently ruffled petals that mimic the intricate layering of mini dahlias. 

These delicate blooms are available in a wide range of colours, including soft pastels, crisp whites, deep purples, and bold pinks, making them a versatile flower for both modern and romantic floral designs. 

Their sophisticated, rose-like appearance makes them a popular alternative to dahlias in wedding bouquets, luxury floral arrangements, and chic event décor.

One of the key benefits of lisianthus is their exceptional vase life—these flowers can last up to two weeks with proper care, far outlasting many other fresh blooms. 

They have strong, slender stems that allow them to hold their shape well in tall, structured arrangements, making them a fantastic addition to both classic and contemporary floral designs. 

Their lightweight, fluttering petals add an element of softness that balances out the bold structure of dahlias, creating a harmonious blend of textures in floral compositions.

Lisianthus grows best in full sun or partial shade with well-draining soil, making them well-suited for container gardening or floral farms. 

While they are considered trickier to grow from seeds, they thrive with consistent watering, good air circulation, and occasional fertilising. Compared to dahlias, which require seasonal replanting, lisianthus can be a more reliable, long-term floral choice when well-maintained.

19. Coneflowers

Coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) are a wonderful addition to any garden or floral arrangement, offering a distinctive texture and bold visual appeal that contrasts beautifully with the full, rounded form of dahlias. 

They are instantly recognisable by their large, raised cone-shaped centres, which are surrounded by slim, slightly drooping petals, resembling a daisy-like structure. 

Unlike dahlias, which have densely packed petals, coneflowers add a more wildflower-inspired aesthetic, making them an excellent choice for naturalistic gardens, pollinator-friendly landscapes, and relaxed floral arrangements.

One of the biggest advantages of coneflowers is their hardy and low-maintenance nature. They are perennial flowers, meaning they return year after year with minimal care. 

These blooms are incredibly drought-resistant, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, making them a perfect fit for Singapore’s warm and humid climate. 

Once established, they require very little watering and can withstand high temperatures and occasional dry spells, making them an ideal flower for busy gardeners who want continuous blooms with minimal effort.

20. Coreopsis

Coreopsis (Coreopsis spp.) is a cheerful, daisy-like flower that brings a burst of colour to any garden, floral arrangement, or potted display. 

Unlike the structured, multi-petaled form of dahlias, coreopsis has a more delicate, star-shaped bloom, offering a lively contrast when paired with fuller flowers. Their bright yellow, orange, pink, or red petals create a sunny, uplifting aesthetic, making them perfect for adding warmth and vibrancy to floral compositions.

One of the standout features of coreopsis is its incredible resilience and long blooming period. These flowers thrive in warm climates and are exceptionally drought-tolerant, making them an ideal choice for Singapore’s tropical weather. 

They prefer full sun, well-draining soil, and minimal watering, making them a low-maintenance flower that blooms consistently throughout the seasons. Many varieties of coreopsis are self-seeding perennials, meaning they will reappear year after year without the need for replanting.

Conclusion About Flowers That Look Like Dahlias

Dahlias are undeniably stunning, but they’re not the only flowers with lush, layered petals and vibrant colours. Whether you’re creating a floral arrangement or planning your next garden update, these 20 flowers that look like dahlias offer the same breathtaking charm. 

From double zinnias to peonies and chrysanthemums, these alternatives provide year-round beauty, making it easy to enjoy dahlia-inspired blooms no matter the season.

If you’re looking for fresh dahlias or preserved floral arrangements in Singapore, Windflower Florist has you covered. Our premium flowers at affordable prices ensure that every bouquet is crafted with quality and care. Plus, with free and guaranteed on-time delivery, you can trust us to make your floral gifting effortless. 

Shop Windflower Florist’s flower collection today and bring the beauty of dahlias straight to your doorstep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Flowers That Look Like Dahlias

Does Growing Flowers That Look Like Dahlias Require The Same Care As Dahlias?

Not necessarily—some dahlia alternatives, like zinnias and marigolds, require minimal maintenance, while others, such as peonies, may need specific soil conditions and seasonal care. 

Unlike dahlias, which require tuber storage in colder climates, many of these flowers are either annuals or perennials that can withstand different growing conditions.

Is It Possible To Mix Flowers That Look Like Dahlias With Actual Dahlias In An Arrangement?

Yes, combining dahlia alternatives like ranunculus, peonies, and gerbera daisies with real dahlias creates a fuller, more textured floral arrangement. Mixing these flowers can also help extend the bouquet’s lifespan, as some varieties last longer than fresh dahlias.

Can Flowers That Look Like Dahlias Grow In Pots Or Containers?

Yes, many dahlia-like flowers, including zinnias, gerbera daisies, and lisianthus, thrive in pots, making them great for small gardens and balconies. Choosing a well-draining potting mix and providing sufficient sunlight helps these flowers flourish in containers.

When Is The Best Time To Plant Flowers That Resemble Dahlias?

The ideal planting time depends on the flower type—spring is best for zinnias and marigolds, while chrysanthemums and peonies thrive when planted in late summer or autumn. Ensuring proper soil preparation and seasonal care will help them bloom beautifully.