Zinnia haageana

Haage zinnia, or Mexican zinnia, is a fast-growing annual in the Asteraceae (daisy) family and native to Mexico. This plant will grow up to 1 foot 6 inches tall and 1 foot wide. The genus, Zinnia, is named in honor of Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist. The species name commemorates J. H. Haage (1826-1878), a German seed-grower.

Haage zinnia grows in full sun to partial shade. Plant it 12 inches to 3 feet apart in highly organic matter or loamy soil that has good drainage and can be occasionally dry. These plants can only be propagated by seed. Avoid watering foliage late in the day. This variety of zinnia needs good air circulation for best performance. It is very tolerant of heat, drought, and pests. Powdery mildew is not an issue as it is with other varieties, and this plant is seldom damaged by deer.

This species of zinnia features narrow-leaved plants with flower heads 1 inch in diameter and containing yellow rays and orange center disks. Some are single and have the appearance of a marigold or coreopsis bloom.  Others are double or semi-double with a full appearance. Many varieties include 2 to 3 tones of color on the same flower.  

Haage zinnia is a carefree choice for the novice gardener, an easy plant to grow. It will brighten a container, patio, walkway, or slope through a long blooming season. Use it as a border or mass planting in a cutting, drought-tolerant, butterfly or pollinator garden, where it will attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. 

Insects, Diseases, Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.

The Clemson Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center has a factsheet on common zinnia insect pests and diseases.  

 VIDEO Created by Elisabeth Meyer for "Annuals, Perennials, Vines, and Groundcovers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.