Zinnia haageana
This species is the Mexican zinnia grown as a fast annual. It stands out for bicolored petals and narrow leaves. Plants bloom through summer into fall in heat and sun. They tolerate occasional drought and often resist powdery mildew. Heads are small yet colorful for edging and smaller bouquets. It is native to Mexico.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: annual species
- Height × spread: 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm) × 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm)
- Bloom window: summer to frost
- Color & flower form: yellow to orange to red; single to semi‑double; many bicolors
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: short stems for posies; good cut quality reported
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Smaller daisies than Z. elegans
- Often better mildew resistance than common zinnia
- Bicolors and two‑tone blooms are common
- Narrow foliage gives a finer texture in beds
Strengths
- Heat and drought tolerant once established
- Long flowering without strict deadheading
- Attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds
- Useful for edging and mass color
Care in one minute
- Full sun to very light afternoon shade in hot areas.
- Soil: well‑drained loam or sandy loam.
- Water when the top inch dries; avoid overhead irrigation late day.
- Feed lightly; too much nitrogen lowers flower count.
- No staking needed; pinch once to branch if desired.
- Frost sensitive; re‑sow after last frost.
Watch‑outs
- Seedlings need sun; shade reduces bloom
- Wet foliage can still invite leaf spots in rainy spells
Best uses (tags)
edging, containers, massing, pollinators, heat‑tolerant
Provenance note
Native to Mexico; species epithet honors J. H. Haage, a German seed grower.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Zinnia haageana
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Zinnia haageana
- ASPCA – Zinnia (non‑toxic to pets)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us