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Description
Zinnia Peruviana, also known as Peruvian zinnia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South America, particularly in the Andean region, and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. Zinnia Peruviana features small, daisy-like flowers that come in various colors, such as yellow, orange, pink, and red. Its blooms typically measure around 2 inches in diameter and grow in clusters atop a single stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Zinnia |
| Species | Zinnia Peruviana |
Appearance
Zinnia Peruviana is a compact, bushy plant that can grow up to 1 to 2 feet tall. Its leaves are oval-shaped, pointed, and hairy, with a bright green color. The flowers of Zinnia Peruviana are the main attraction, with petals that come in various shades of yellow, orange, pink, and red. The flowers have a central disc that is typically brown or yellow in color, surrounded by petal-like ray flowers. Zinnia Peruviana blooms from midsummer to early fall and is a popular choice among gardeners looking for a splash of color.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Zinnia Peruviana thrives, you need to provide it with proper care. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Water
Zinnia Peruviana prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure to let the soil dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Zinnia Peruviana benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil
Zinnia Peruviana grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. Make sure to amend the soil with compost or organic matter before planting.
Sunlight
Zinnia Peruviana requires full sun to thrive. Make sure to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Zinnia Peruviana is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow it as an annual or in containers that you can move indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zinnia Peruviana is relatively disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide proper air circulation and avoid overwatering. Common pests that attack Zinnia Peruviana include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Zinnia Peruviana is native to the Andean region of South America and is commonly found in open grasslands and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Zinnia Peruviana in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow Zinnia Peruviana in a container as long as it receives adequate sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Zinnia Peruviana?
A: You should fertilize Zinnia Peruviana every 2 to 3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Zinnia Peruviana tolerate frost?
A: No, Zinnia Peruviana is not frost-tolerant and should be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Q: How often should I water Zinnia Peruviana?
A: You should water Zinnia Peruviana moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Zinnia genus include:
- Zinnia elegans
- Zinnia haageana
- Zinnia angustifolia
- Zinnia acerosa
References
- “Zinnia Peruviana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281151&isprofile=1&basic=Zinnia%20peruviana.
- “Zinnia peruviana.” PlantFiles. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/180676/.
- “Zinnia peruviana.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100209/zinnia-peruviana/details.
