Zinnia grandiflora
This species is the plains or Rocky Mountain zinnia, a low perennial groundcover. It stands out for papery yellow daisies over tight, woody mounds. Plants excel in hot, dry, well‑drained sites and shortgrass prairie settings. They bloom from summer to frost. They spread slowly by rhizomes in lean soils. It is native to the central and southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: perennial species
- Height × spread: 4 to 8 in (10 to 20 cm) × 12 to 18 in (30 to 45 cm)
- Bloom window: summer to frost
- Color & flower form: bright yellow single daisies
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: zones 4 to 8
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Perennial, low and mounding versus tall annual types
- Very drought tolerant once established
- Small flowers and needlelike leaves give a fine texture
- Good erosion control on sunny slopes
Strengths
- Survives heat, wind, and poor soils
- Long bloom in summer into fall
- Rhizomatous habit can knit ground
- Attracts bees and butterflies
Care in one minute
- Full sun and sharp drainage are essential.
- Soil: sandy or gravelly; avoid heavy clay.
- Water sparingly after establishment.
- Do not overfertilize; growth becomes lax.
- Shear lightly after first flush to tidy.
- Hardy perennial in much of the West and Plains.
Watch‑outs
- Root rot in heavy or wet soils
- Slow to establish in rich, irrigated beds
Best uses (tags)
xeric groundcover, rock gardens, slopes, pollinators
Provenance note
Native to the central and southwestern U.S. into northern Mexico.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Zinnia grandiflora
- USDA Forest Service – Wild Zinnia (Zinnia grandiflora)
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Zinnia grandiflora
- ASPCA – Zinnia (non‑toxic to pets)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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