Contents
Description
Zinnia Elegans, commonly known as Zinnia, is an annual flowering plant that is native to Mexico. It is a member of the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers, daisies, and asters. Zinnia Elegans is a popular plant among gardeners due to its bright and colorful flowers that bloom in various colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, and purple. The plant typically grows up to three feet tall and has a spread of around one foot. It blooms from mid-summer to fall and is a great addition to flower beds, borders, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Zinnia |
Appearance
Zinnia Elegans has a bushy, upright growth habit with green leaves that are opposite and ovate in shape. The flowers are daisy-like with a central disk surrounded by ray petals. The petals can be single or double, and the colors vary from solid to bi-colored or tri-colored. The plant typically grows up to three feet tall and has a spread of around one foot. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to fall and can last for several weeks. Deadheading the spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more blooms.
Care Guide
Zinnia Elegans is an easy-to-care-for plant that does not require much attention. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Zinnia Elegans prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
- Fertilization: Zinnia Elegans benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Zinnia Elegans prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: Zinnia Elegans thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade. Plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Zinnia Elegans is an annual plant that is hardy in zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Zinnia Elegans is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can be found on the leaves and stems. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the leaves, causing a white powdery coating. It can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Use a fungicide to control it.
- Botrytis: This fungal disease can cause the flowers to rot. Remove any affected flowers and provide good air circulation to prevent it.
Habitat
Zinnia Elegans is native to Mexico and Central America but is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. It prefers warm weather and well-draining soil. It is commonly grown in gardens, flower beds, borders, and containers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Zinnia Elegans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Zinnia Elegans can be grown in containers. Choose a pot that is at least 12 inches deep and wide and fill it with well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly and fertilize it every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Q: How often should I deadhead Zinnia Elegans?
A: Deadhead Zinnia Elegans regularly to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Remove the spent flowers as soon as they wilt or fade.
Q: Is Zinnia Elegans deer-resistant?
A: Zinnia Elegans is not deer-resistant. If you have a deer problem in your area, you may want to protect your plants with a fence or use deer repellent.
Q: When is the best time to plant Zinnia Elegans?
A: Zinnia Elegans can be planted in the spring after the last frost or in the summer. It prefers warm weather and well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Zinnia Acerosa
- Zinnia Angustifolia
- Zinnia Haageana
- Zinnia Peruviana
- Zinnia Grandiflora
References
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Zinnia Elegans. Retrieved from https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/plants/ornamentals/zinnia.html
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Zinnia Elegans. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b717
- BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine. (2019, June 4). How to grow zinnias. Retrieved from https://www.gardenersworld.com/how-to/grow-plants/how-to-grow-zinnias/
