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Zinnias are a favorite choice among gardeners for their vibrant colors, and there are many varieties to choose from. These flowers brighten up any garden space with their bold and diverse blooms. Zinnias are typically grown as annuals, making them a popular choice for adding seasonal color.
They’re planted in the spring after the last frost, since they thrive in warm weather and full sun. Zinnias come in a dazzling array of colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, white, and even green. The wide range of hues and shapes can make zinnias a wonderful addition to your garden.
Their long blooming period, which extends from early summer until the first frost in autumn, makes for a long display of gorgeous flowers. Additionally, zinnias are known for attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular zinnia varieties that you can grow at home.
1. Common Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia elegans
Common Zinnias are the quintessential zinnia variety found in many gardens. They are known for their wide range of colors and large, showy blooms. Popular varieties include ‘Benary’s Giant’ and ‘Cut and Come Again.’ These zinnias thrive in full sun and well-drained soil, making them easy to grow and maintain.
2. Creeping Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia angustifolia
Creeping Zinnias have a more compact growth habit, making them perfect for borders and ground covers. They produce smaller flowers in shades of yellow, orange, and white. Varieties like ‘Crystal White’ and ‘Star Orange’ are favorites among gardeners. They are drought-tolerant and prefer full sun.
3. Mexican Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia haageana
Mexican Zinnias are known for their bold and vibrant blooms in shades of red, orange, and yellow. These zinnias have a slightly smaller flower size but are packed with color. Varieties such as ‘Aztec Sunset’ and ‘Persian Carpet’ are popular choices. They grow well in hot climates and are highly drought-resistant.
4. Peruvian Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia peruviana
Peruvian Zinnias are distinguished by their unique, daisy-like flowers and tall, slender stems. They come in bright colors like red, yellow, and orange. These zinnias are perfect for adding height to garden beds and borders. They thrive in well-drained soil and full sun.
5. Prairie Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia grandiflora
Prairie Zinnias are the only perennial zinnia variety on this list. They produce smaller, yellow flowers and are well-suited for dry, rocky soils. These zinnias are often grown as annuals in cooler climates. Their low-growing, spreading habit makes them ideal for ground cover.
6. Narrowleaf Zinnia
Latin Name: Zinnia linearis
Narrowleaf Zinnias are characterized by their narrow leaves and small, daisy-like flowers. They are perfect for container gardening and small spaces. Varieties like ‘Golden Nugget’ and ‘White Star’ are popular. These zinnias are hardy and can tolerate a range of soil conditions, thriving in full sun.
7. Zinnia Marylandica
Latin Name: Zinnia marylandica
Zinnia Marylandica is a hybrid variety known for its disease resistance and long blooming period. The flowers are smaller but come in a wide range of colors. Varieties such as ‘Zahara’ and ‘Profusion’ are well-loved for their resilience and vibrant blooms. These zinnias are perfect for gardeners looking for low-maintenance, continuous color.
Flower Forms of Zinnias
Single Flowered Zinnias
Single Flowered Zinnias have a single row of petals surrounding a visible central disk, giving them a simple and elegant daisy-like appearance. They are often found in Creeping Zinnias and Prairie Zinnias, which are excellent for borders and ground covers due to their compact growth habit and small flowers.
Semi-Double Flowered Zinnias
Semi-Double Flowered Zinnias have multiple rows of petals, but the central disk is still visible. This form adds more fullness compared to single flowered varieties and can be found in Mexican Zinnias and Peruvian Zinnias, which are known for their vibrant colors and slightly smaller, colorful blooms.
Double Flowered Zinnias
Double Flowered Zinnias are characterized by numerous rows of petals that cover the central disk completely, creating a lush, full appearance. Common Zinnias often exhibit this flower form, with varieties like ‘Benary’s Giant’ showcasing large, showy blooms.
Cactus Flowered Zinnias
Cactus Flowered Zinnias feature long, narrow petals that may be curled or twisted, giving the flowers a spiky, unique appearance. This exotic form can also be found in some varieties of Common Zinnias, adding a striking element to any garden.
Pompon or Button Zinnias
Pompon or Button Zinnias produce small, globe-shaped flowers that are very full and rounded, resembling buttons or pom-poms. Zinnia Marylandica often displays this flower form, known for its compact size and resilience, making it a favorite among gardeners.
Dahlia Flowered Zinnias
Dahlia Flowered Zinnias have large, fully double blooms similar to dahlias, with numerous layers of petals. This luxurious flower form is common in varieties of Common Zinnias, such as ‘State Fair,’ providing a dramatic and beautiful addition to the garden.
Summary
Zinnias offer a stunning array of colors and forms that can enhance any garden. Whether you prefer the classic beauty of Common Zinnias or the unique charm of Mexican Zinnias, there is a variety for every gardener. Try growing different types of zinnias to enjoy their bright, cheerful blooms throughout the growing season.
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