Dahlias have been described and grown for several hundred years. In its native environment, they were called Acocotli (which is pronounced with a silent T and a double L sound). Dahlias are the National flower for Mexico. The meaning of Acocotli has is in the ball park meaning of edible herb and the tubers were eaten by the cultures in their native range. From what I have been able to read, the root has a slightly bitter and earthy flavor and is supposed to help strengthen and heal the stomach. Some people prepare them still, but we will save that gem for another time, if anyone is looking for something to do with their blind tubers.