Peruvian zinnia Zinnia peruviana

Peruvian zinnia is an annual, erect, wildflower in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico and is found as far south as Venezuela and Argentina. It grows along roadsides, in disturbed locations, wastelands, and pastures. 

Peruvian zinnia needs full sun and sandy soil with good drainage, which can be occasionally dry. Water regularly; however, do not overwater as it has a short taproot. It propagates self-seeding by the wind.  

This plant is a fast-growing, quick-blooming tropical species that grows 6 inches to 3 feet tall and 1inch to 2 feet wide. The plant's flowers are showy with gold and yellow or red and burgundy from summer through the fall. The stems are mostly unbranched, rough, and have fine, stiff hairs.   Plants are not typically commercially available at garden centers as a choice for your home garden. However, seeds are available for purchase. They can also be collected from plants. Allow the seed heads to dry on the plant before collecting.

Peruvian zinnia makes an excellent choice for xeriscaping, pollinator, and conservation gardens where the flowers can be cut and brought indoors to enjoy.  Use in a container, mass planted along a walkway or patio, in a border planting, or tucked into any other small space in the garden that needs a pop of color. 

Quick ID Hints:

• Leaves are green, simple, and rough
• Leaves are opposite on stems
• Stems are green, purple, or lavender

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Aphids and thrips are occasional issues.

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.