About

This very compact, bushy, half-hardy annual, producing fully-double flowers, 5cm (2in) in diameter, with petals that are burgundy tipped with cream and a ring of yellow florets in the centre. They are produced in profusion on plants only 25cm (10in) tall, making them useful for growing near the front of the border and in the wildlife garden, where they will be attractive to pollinating insects.

About the genus

Zinnia can be annuals, perennials or sub-shrubs, with branching stems bearing opposite leaves and solitary terminal flower-heads in summer

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

CultivationGrow in well-drained, fertile, humus-rich soil in a warm, sunny position
PruningDeadhead to prolong flowering
PropagationPropagate by seed sown in pots in spring or, in warm areas, sown in situ in late spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to foot and root rot and grey moulds. Resistant to powdery mildews.