Your Guide to Growing the Perfect Zinnias
There are more than 20 zinnia species and hundreds of different cultivars and hybrids. Zinnias come in a wide range of sizes, from small plants for borders to plants over three feet tall that hold the flowers on long stems perfect for cutting. The more you cut, the more flowers zinnia plants will produce. Whether you're a beginner or an expert gardener, zinnias offer something for everyone.
Bloom Types and Petal Styles
Zinnias come in a dazzling array of types and styles, catering to every gardener's preference. You'll find single-flowered varieties, perfect for a minimalist yet elegant garden look. These have one row of petals and a visible, open center. If you're inclined towards something more opulent, the double-flowered varieties, with their numerous layers of petals, are a sight to behold. Then there are the semi-doubles, striking a perfect balance between the two.
Flower Shapes
Zinnias are also classified based on their flower shapes whether they are the dahlia-style pompoms, the cactus-flowered varieties with their quill-like petals, or the classic dome-shaped blooms.
Color Palette of Zinnias
One of the most exciting aspects of zinnias is their color palette. These flowers paint your garden in almost every hue imaginable. From radiant reds and bold oranges to pastel pinks, sunny yellows, deep purples, and even striking greens. There are also multicolored varieties that bring a playful charm to any garden setting.
A Guide to the Different Types of Zinnias
Zinnias are beloved by gardeners for their vibrant blooms, ease of care, and ability to attract pollinators. Within the zinnia family, there are several distinct types, each with unique characteristics that make them suitable for various gardening needs. Here’s a closer look at the different types of zinnias and what sets them apart:
Zinnia Elegans (Common Zinnia)
Zinnia Elegans, also known as common zinnia, is the quintessential garden zinnia. These classic, upright zinnias feature a bushy habit and are renowned for their variety in height and color. They can grow anywhere from 12 inches to 4 feet tall, offering a range of options for garden design. The blooms are large and can be single, double, or semi-double, making them a versatile choice for bouquets and garden displays.
Zinnia Angustifolia (Narrow-Leaf Zinnia)
Zinnia Angustifolia, or narrow-leaf zinnia, is distinguished by its compact and spreading habit. These zinnias typically grow to about 8 to 18 inches in height and are perfect for borders, containers, and ground cover due to their low-growing, mounding form. The narrow leaves and small, daisy-like flowers are hardy and more tolerant of heat and humidity than Zinnia Elegans, making them a great choice for warmer climates.
Zinnia Haageana (Mexican Zinnia)
Also known as Mexican zinnia, Zinnia Haageana is recognized for its smaller, more compact flowers and plants. Growing up to 12 to 18 inches tall, these zinnias are exceptionally drought-tolerant and thrive in hot, dry conditions. The flowers often come in warm colors like red, orange, and yellow, and their compact size makes them ideal for rock gardens and low-water landscapes.
Zinnia Profusion
The Zinnia Profusion series is a hybrid known for its outstanding disease resistance and profuse blooming. These zinnias are compact, mound-forming plants that typically reach 12 to 18 inches in height. They are celebrated for their continuous bloom from early summer until the first frost, and their flowers come in a wide range of colors including white, yellow, red, and pink. Profusion zinnias are highly resistant to powdery mildew and leaf spot, making them a low-maintenance choice for gardens.
Zinnia Marylandsica
Zinnia Marylandsica hybrids combine the best traits of Zinnia Elegans and Zinnia Angustifolia. These hybrids are known for their robust disease resistance and prolific blooming. They generally grow to about 12 to 18 inches in height and produce a profusion of flowers that are excellent for attracting pollinators. The sturdy plants are highly tolerant of both heat and humidity, making them a versatile choice for diverse climates.
Key Differences Among Zinnia Types
Growth Habit: Zinnia Elegans are upright and bushy, Zinnia Angustifolia are compact and spreading, and Zinnia Haageana are smaller and more compact. Zinnia Profusion and Zinnia Marylandsica have mound-forming habits.
Height: Zinnia Elegans can reach up to 4 feet, whereas the other types typically stay between 8 to 18 inches tall.
Flower Size and Form: Common zinnias have larger blooms, while narrow-leaf and Mexican zinnias have smaller, daisy-like flowers. Profusion and Marylandsica zinnias feature medium-sized flowers with excellent disease resistance.
Climate Tolerance: Mexican zinnias and narrow-leaf zinnias are particularly drought-tolerant and suitable for hot, dry climates. Profusion and Marylandsica zinnias are resistant to heat and humidity.
Disease Resistance: Profusion and Marylandsica hybrids are specially bred for superior disease resistance, making them ideal for gardeners looking for low-maintenance options.
With so much variety, you can choose the right type of zinnia for your specific needs and preferences. YOu're sure to find a zinnia variety that is perfect for your garden or patio container.
Unique Features: More Than Just Pretty Flowers
Zinnias are not just beautiful, these flowers boast unique features that make them a practical choice for gardeners looking for assortments and combinations. They come in various sizes, from compact varieties ideal for container gardening to taller types that create stunning backdrops in garden beds. Their petal arrangements are not only beautiful; they're also beneficial for pollinators. Zinnias attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, making your garden a wildlife and pollinator haven. In addition, they're resilient, thrive in warm weather, and are relatively easy to grow from seed.
Growing Zinnias from Seed: A Rewarding Experience
For those who haven't tried growing zinnias from seed, you're in for a delightful experience. Park Seed offers a wide range of zinnia seeds, perfect for every gardener's needs. Growing them from seed allows you to witness the entire life cycle of these extraordinary flowers, from a tiny seed to a stunning bloom. It's a rewarding process that enhances your connection with nature.
Whether you're looking for seeds to start a zinnia garden or seeking new varieties to add to your collection, we have everything you need.
