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Plant Profiles / Zinnia
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Zinnia
Zinnia elegans · Youth-and-age
Vivid, long-lasting summer flowers loved by butterflies, in nearly every colour but blue. Dwarf types suit pots.
Full sunLight
Twice a weekWater
Very easyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
Full sun.
Water
Twice a week
DryWet
Water soil, not leaves.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air reduces mildew.
Temperature
15–38°C (59–100°F)
CoolWarm
Loves heat.
Growth
Fast
SlowFast
30–90 cm.
Soil
Free-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix.
Fertiliser
Monthly
RarelyOften
Balanced.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic.
About this plant
Zinnias come from Mexico. They grow fast from seed, thrive in heat and make great cut flowers.
Best spots
Sunny pots, balconies and cut-flower containers.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Zinnia elegans |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Plant type | Annual |
| Mature size | 30–90 cm |
| Growth rate | Fast |
| Flowers | Bright, many colours |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Seed |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Deadhead
PlantFloweringDeadhead
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Mildew | Airflow; water soil. |
| Leggy | Pinch young plants. |
| Few flowers | Deadhead. |
| Snails | Bait. |
| Leaf spot | Remove leaves. |
Common questions
Cut flowers?
Excellent.
Pots?
Dwarf varieties.
Butterflies?
Yes.
Pet safe?
Yes.
