Zinnia

Zinnia are warm-season flowering annuals in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. They are native to southern North America and South America, and there are many cultivars, colors, and a range of sizes available—from 6 inches to 4 feet tall. Zinnia are named in honor of Johann Gottfried Zinn, a German botanist.

Zinnia are showy, low maintenance and easy to grow. Plant them in average, well-drained garden soil in full sun and allow good air circulation. Keep them moist until established. Deadhead to encourage more bloom but leave some seed heads for the birds. Zinnia come in various shapes, including beehive, button, and cactus. Their blooms may be described as single (single row of petals and a visible center), double (numerous rows of petals, centers not visible), or semi-double (numerous rows of petals with visible centers).

There are multiple varieties or cultivars of zinnia, including the hybrid 'Profusion' Series. A cross between Zinnia angustifolia (disease resistance) and Zinnia elegans (larger flowers), ‘Profusion’ combines the best traits of both, including tolerance of drought, heat, and humidity. The strong, durable foliage resists insects.

Depending on the size, zinnias can be used in the front or the back border, in a meadow, in containers, and in a cutting or pollinator garden. Massed or in small groups they add season-long color to the landscape. Zinnia are deer and rabbit resistant and attract butterflies, hummingbirds, and songbirds. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Susceptible to powdery mildew. 

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