Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose

Description

Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose is a stunning variety of Zinnia that belongs to the Marylandica series. It is a hybrid plant that is known for its distinct color and ease of growth. The plant grows up to 12-18 inches in height and spreads up to 10-12 inches. It blooms from late spring to fall, producing an abundance of beautiful rose-pink flowers with white edges. The flowers are 2-3 inches in diameter and have a long vase life, making them an excellent choice for cut flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose has a compact, bushy growth habit with dark green, lance-shaped leaves. The plant produces abundant rose-pink flowers with white edges that are 2-3 inches in diameter. The flowers have a central disc surrounded by numerous petals, giving them a daisy-like appearance. The petals are arranged in a neat, symmetrical pattern and have a velvety texture. The plant blooms from late spring to fall, producing a profusion of flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.

Care Guide

Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:

• Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant the Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: The plant requires full sun for optimal growth and flowering.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11, but can be grown as an annual in cooler climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that you may encounter:

• Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant’s sap, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
• Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a powdery white coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation to prevent the disease from spreading. Use a fungicide to control the infestation.
• Botrytis Blight: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and flowers, and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Remove affected plant parts and use a fungicide to control the infestation.

Habitat

Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose is a hybrid plant that was developed for use in garden beds, borders, and containers. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, and is tolerant of heat and drought. The plant is native to the Americas, where it grows in a wide range of habitats, from grasslands to deserts.

Question and Answer

Q: How often should I fertilize my Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the ideal growing condition for Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose?
A: The plant requires full sun and well-draining soil for optimal growth and flowering.Q: What are the common pests that attack Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose?
A: Aphids are the most common pests that attack the plant.Q: How long is the blooming period of Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose?
A: The plant blooms from late spring to fall.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Zinnia Marylandica Zahara Starlight Rose:

• Zinnia elegans
• Zinnia angustifolia
• Zinnia haageana
• Zinnia peruviana

References

• “Zinnia Zahara Starlight Rose.” Ball Horticultural Company. https://www.ballseed.com/PlantInfo/?phid=064800001002906
• “Zinnia Marylandica ‘Zahara Starlight Rose’.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=291137&isprofile=1&basic=zinnia%20marylandica
• “Zinnia.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/topic_zinnia