Zinnia delivers some of the boldest, most saturated color of any easy-to-grow annual, blooming almost nonstop from planting until the first fall frost.
Native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, zinnias have become a garden and cutting-favorite worldwide for their fast growth, heat tolerance, and enormous range of bloom colors and shapes. Butterflies are especially drawn to zinnias, making them a top pick for pollinator gardens.
Zinnia symbolizes lasting affection and thoughts of absent friends, its long-lasting bloom and reliability as a cut flower reinforcing its association with enduring friendship.
Zinnia wants full sun and average, well-draining soil, growing quickly and easily from direct-sown seed after the last frost. Good air circulation between plants helps prevent powdery mildew, a common issue in crowded or humid conditions, and regular cutting for bouquets actually encourages more blooms.
Zinnia has no significant history of herbal or medicinal use and is grown almost entirely as a bold, easy-care garden and cutting flower ornamental.
