Zinnia
Zinnia Detailed Encyclopedia Introduction
Asteraceae annual herb with vibrant, long-lasting flowers in various colors, popular for gardens and cut flowers.
Basic Info
Family：Asteraceae
Scientific Name：Zinnia elegans
Origin：Mexico
Flowering Period：Summer to Fall (June-October)
Height：30-100 cm
Lifespan：Annual
Morphology
Leaves：Opposite, ovate to lanceolate, rough texture
Flowers：Solitary terminal flowers, single or double petals, 5-15 cm diameter, various colors
Roots：Fibrous root system
Stem：Erect, sturdy, branching
Growth Habits
Soil Requirements：Prefers well-drained, fertile loam
Watering Needs：Moderate watering, avoid overhead watering to prevent disease
Light Requirements：Full sun loving, needs 6-8 hours of direct sunlight
Temperature Requirements：Heat tolerant, optimal growing temperature 18-28°C
Classification & Varieties
Main Classifications
Ornamental Varieties
Professional Care
✂️ Pruning Management
Pruning Timing：Regular deadheading throughout blooming season
Pruning Method：Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming, pinch young plants for bushier growth
Pruning Purpose：Promote continuous flowering, maintain compact shape
Required Tools：Pruning shears or scissors, gloves
🛡️ Pest & Disease Management
Common Pests：
Common Diseases：
Prevention Measures：Ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove debris
Treatment Methods：Apply fungicides for powdery mildew, use insecticidal soap for pests
🌱 Fertilization Management
Fertilizer Type：Balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) or compost
Fertilization Frequency：Every 4-6 weeks during growing season
Fertilization Timing：After planting, during active growth
Fertilization Amount：Follow package instructions, avoid over-fertilizing
💧 Water Requirements
Watering Frequency：2-3 times weekly, more in hot weather
Watering Amount：1 inch per week, adjust based on rainfall
Watering Method：Water at base of plant, avoid wetting foliage
Dehydration Signs：Wilting leaves, drooping flowers, yellowing foliage
Basic Care Tips
- •Plant after last frost in full sun location
- •Space plants 6-18 inches apart depending on variety
- •Deadhead regularly to promote continuous blooming
- •Provide support for tall varieties to prevent lodging
- •Excellent for cutting gardens, flowers last 7-12 days in vase
Ecology Value
Pollinators：Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
Wildlife：Excellent nectar source for pollinators, attracts beneficial insects
Environmental Value：Beautifies gardens, provides pollinator habitat, heat and drought tolerant
Cultural Symbolism
Symbolic Meaning：Endurance, lasting affection, thoughts of absent friends
Historical Background：Named after Johann Gottfried Zinn, 18th-century German botanist, cultivated since Aztec times
Related Festivals：Popular in summer garden festivals and flower shows
Artistic Expression：Common subject in garden photography and floral arrangements