Zinnia elegans
This species is the common garden zinnia grown as a warm‑season annual across North America. It stands out for large flowers in many colors and forms. Plants thrive in full sun with regular moisture and good air movement. They bloom from summer to frost. Performance is strongest where nights are warm and foliage stays dry. It suits cutting gardens and mixed borders. It is native to Mexico.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: annual species
- Height × spread: 12 to 48 in (30 to 120 cm) × 9 to 12 in (23 to 30 cm)
- Bloom window: June to frost
- Color & flower form: wide range; single, semi‑double, double
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Cut‑flower notes: upright stems; typical vase life about 7 to 10 days
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Taller and showier than most other species in the genus
- Many fully double forms uncommon in perennial species
- More prone to powdery mildew in humid summers
- Strong stems for cutting compared with lower, mounding species
Strengths
- Long summer to frost bloom with deadheading
- Easy from direct seed
- Excellent cut flower potential
- Wide color and form choices
Care in one minute
- Site in full sun with open airflow.
- Soil: well‑drained, moderately fertile; neutral to slightly acidic.
- Water consistently at the base; avoid wet foliage.
- Feed lightly at planting; overfeeding reduces stem strength.
- Pinch once at 8 to 10 in to branch; deadhead to extend bloom.
- Frost kills plants; re‑sow each spring after last frost.
Watch‑outs
- Powdery mildew and leaf spots without spacing and airflow
- Can slow or stall in extreme heat with high humidity
- Japanese beetles may feed on foliage and blooms
Best uses (tags)
cutting, borders, containers, pollinators
Provenance note
Native to Mexico; the genus honors Johann Gottfried Zinn.
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Zinnia elegans
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Zinnia elegans
- Clemson HGIC – Zinnia insect pests and diseases
- MSU Extension – Growing zinnias in your flower garden
- ASPCA – Zinnia (non‑toxic to pets)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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