Vibrant, long-stemmed daisies in hot colours that bloom relentlessly through summer heat. The more you cut, the more they flower; a butterfly magnet and cutting-garden staple.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 90 cm H × 30 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Zinnia
Botanically, Zinnia elegans is an fast-growing annual in the Asteraceae family. It reaches around 90 cm tall and 30 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. Red, pink, orange, yellow, white and purple flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Zinnia
Zinnia suits warm-temperate, subtropical and tropical climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Zinnia provided drainage is reasonable. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Zinnia is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Zinnia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Zinnia in the garden
Zinnia earns its place for cut flowers for the vase, attracting butterflies, feeding bees and pollinators and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Zinnia with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Zinnia
Plant Sale lists Zinnia as seed. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment we have it ready.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Zinnia seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.