We live in Nebraska, Zone 5, but it is on the south side of the house. It is in flowe now. With more buds forming.
Bulb well packed planted a week ago and already sprouting
One
Mine never sprouted (grrrr) but here’s an answer: Dahlia tubers consist of a stumpy stem or stems with several swollen parts attached to them. Where all of this meets is called the crown. The dahlia's stems will grow from buds, or eyes, on the crown.