Zinnia peruviana
This species is the Peruvian zinnia grown as a quick annual. It stands out for open, single daisies in warm reds and golds. Plants prefer full sun and lean, well‑drained soil. They bloom in summer and fall and tolerate heat and dry spells. It is less common in retail than other zinnias. It is native from the southern United States through Mexico to South America.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: annual species
- Height × spread: 6 to 36 in (15 to 90 cm) × varies by seed line
- Bloom window: summer to fall
- Color & flower form: gold to yellow to red; mostly single daisies
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in all zones
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown
- Pet safety: safe
How it differs
- Simpler single heads versus the doubles of Z. elegans
- Less widely sold for bedding
- Heat tolerant in lean soils
- Often shorter lived in containers without sharp drainage
Strengths
- Fast from seed
- Handles heat and poor, rocky soils
- Attracts pollinators
- Low water needs once established
Care in one minute
- Full sun; avoid rich, soggy soils.
- Water deeply, then allow soil to dry between waterings.
- Fertilize sparingly.
- Deadhead to extend bloom.
- Direct seed after frost; transplants are optional.
- Frost ends the display each year.
Watch‑outs
- Variable height and vigor among seed sources
- Not as mildew resistant as narrowleaf types in humid climates
Best uses (tags)
meadow, xeric border, pollinators, naturalizing
Provenance note
Native range extends from the southern U.S. to northern Argentina.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Zinnia peruviana
- USDA PLANTS – Zinnia peruviana
- Kew – Plants of the World Online: Zinnia peruviana
- ASPCA – Zinnia (non‑toxic to pets)
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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