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 a 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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Zinnia does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
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
Combine Zinnia with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Zinnia
Plant Sale lists Zinnia as seed. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Zinnia seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
