Mexican Zinnia Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange' (d)
ABOUT
Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange', commonly known as Aztec orange Mexican zinnia, is a vibrant and colorful flower that catches the eye in any garden. Its most striking feature is the bright orange petals that are bold and lively, drawing in both sightseers and pollinators like butterflies. These petals are typically numerous, forming a dense pompom-like structure that gives the blooms a lush and full appearance. The orange color can range from deep, saturated hues to softer shades, sometimes with hints of yellow or red at the edges, giving each flower its unique character. Each flower of the Aztec orange Mexican zinnia is composed of a central disk that can be a contrasting color, often darker, surrounded by the ray florets which are what we typically see as the main petals. These ray florets may have a pointed tip, giving the flower's silhouette a somewhat spiky look, providing a textural quality to the plant's overall aesthetic. The foliage of the Aztec orange Mexican zinnia is typically lush green, with leaves that are simple, with smooth edges, and an unassuming appearance that doesn't compete with the flamboyant display of the flowers. The stems are upright and sturdy, anchoring the vibrant blooms and allowing them to stand proudly above the foliage. Aztec orange Mexican zinnia, being a member of the Zinnia genus, shares the characteristic shape and form of zinnias, making it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a pop of color with a classic floral shape. Its appearance is typical of the zinnias that are beloved for their brilliant colors and ease of growing. The flowers persist throughout the growing season, providing a long-lasting display of color. While we are not detailing the size, it is important to note that the overall appearance of the plant is a result of the combined effect of individual blooms and the bushy, vigorous growth habit that typifies Aztec orange Mexican zinnias. This plant is not only treasured for its ornamental value but also for its ability to withstand hot and sunny conditions, making it both stunning to look at and resilient as a garden specimen.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae.
Synonyms
Mexican Zinnia, Narrow-leaved Zinnia, Haage's Zinnia.
Common names
Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange'.
ToxicityTo humans
Mexican Zinnia, generally speaking, is not considered toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation when handling the plant due to sensitivity to its natural compounds. If ingested, it is not expected to cause poisoning, but it's not intended for human consumption, and eating any part of the plant can potentially lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or more serious issues if allergies are present.
To pets
Mexican Zinnia is not known to be toxic to pets. It should be safe around cats and dogs. However, ingestion of non-food plants can sometimes result in mild stomach upset for pets, so it's always best to prevent them from eating garden plants. If your pet does consume a large amount of the plant and shows symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Orange
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Easy to Grow: Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange' is known for its ease of cultivation and can thrive in a variety of soil types.
- Attracts Pollinators: The bright flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators to the garden.
- Long Blooming: This plant offers a long blooming season, providing continuous color from mid-summer to frost.
- Beautiful Cut Flowers: The vibrant blooms make excellent cut flowers for arrangements and bouquets.
- Drought Tolerant: Once established, Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange' has good drought tolerance, making it a suitable choice for xeric landscapes.
- Adds Color and Beauty: The rich orange blooms of the plant add aesthetic appeal to any garden or landscape.
- Low Maintenance: These zinnias generally require minimal care, aside from occasional watering and deadheading to promote further blooms.
- Versatile Gardening Use: It can be used in flower beds, borders, and containers, offering versatility in garden design.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The vibrant petals of the Aztec Orange can be used to create natural dyes for fabric coloring, offering hues from soft yellows to deep oranges depending on the mordant used.
- Art Supplies: Dried petals can be crushed to make a fine powder that serves as a natural pigment in art projects, perfect for painting or crafts.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used in school gardens to teach students about the life cycle of flowering plants, pollination, and the importance of biodiversity.
- Photography Subject: Its bright orange flowers make Aztec Orange a popular choice for photographers looking to add vivid color and life to their botanical portfolios.
- Floral Arrangements: Fresh or dried, these flowers can add an exotic touch to floral displays and are often used in creating festive decorations.
- Companion Planting: When grown in vegetable gardens, Aztec Orange can act as a companion plant by attracting pollinators which are essential for crop production.
- Culinary Garnish: Edible flowers like Aztec Orange can be used to ornament and add a splash of color to salads and desserts.
- Soil Health Indicator: This plant can serve as an indicator of soil health, as it thrives in rich, well-drained soil, signaling to gardeners the condition of their garden beds.
- Craft Material: The stems and petals can be used in making homemade paper or potpourri, contributing both texture and fragrance.
- Event Decor: Aztec Orange can be utilized for event decorations, particularly in autumn-themed events, where its color aligns with the seasonal palette.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiMexican Zinnia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityMexican Zinnia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Memory: Zinnias are often associated with remembrance, and giving someone a zinnia can signify that you are thinking of an absent friend.
- Endurance: These flowers have the ability to withstand hot temperatures, symbolizing endurance and persistence in adverse conditions.
- Friendship: Due to their bright and cheerful look, zinnias are considered a symbol of friendship and daily remembrance.
- Diversity: Zinnias come in a variety of shapes and colors, symbolizing the beauty of diversity and a reminder to embrace differences.
- Goodness: The vibrant bloom of the zinnia represents goodness and a reminder to focus on the positive aspects of life.
- Absent Friends: In Victorian flower language, Zinnias are often associated with thinking of friends who are far away.
WaterMexican Zinnia should be watered regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot. They require consistent moisture, especially during hot, dry periods. A good rule of thumb is to water about once a week, providing about one gallon of water per plant. During peak summer heat, you may need to water twice a week if the soil dries out faster. It is best to water these plants in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal infections that can occur if the foliage remains wet overnight.
LightMexican Zinnias thrive in full sun conditions, which means they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They should be planted in a spot where they receive unfiltered sunlight throughout the day. Avoid shaded areas as insufficient light can lead to poor blooming and weak growth.
TemperatureMexican Zinnia prefers warm temperatures and should be grown in conditions where temperatures range between 60°F and 85°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of 50°F for short periods but are not cold-hardy. They thrive best when night temperatures do not drop below 60°F and the daytime temperature remains below 85°F.
PruningPrune Mexican Zinnias to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous flowering. Pruning is best done in the morning and can be done throughout the blooming season. Cut back the plant by one-third in midsummer if it becomes leggy or sparse.
CleaningAs needed
SoilMexican Zinnia thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter; a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite is ideal. Aim for a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
RepottingMexican Zinnias, as annual plants, typically do not require repotting as they complete their life cycle in one growing season and are then replanted.
Humidity & MistingMexican Zinnia prefers moderate humidity but is quite adaptable and can tolerate the humidity levels commonly found in most outdoor environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Use bright light and well-draining soil for Mexican Zinnia.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-drained soil, water regularly for Mexican Zinnia.
Hardiness zone
3-10 USDA
Life cycleZinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange', commonly known as Mexican Zinnia, starts its life cycle when a seed germinates, typically in warm soil with temperatures above 70°F, after the last frost has passed in spring. The seedling emerges, developing true leaves and establishing a root system. As it matures, the plant enters the vegetative stage, growing in height and producing a branching structure. Upon reaching maturity, the Mexican Zinnia begins the flowering stage, producing vibrant orange blooms that are attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers produce seeds, which can be collected for replanting or naturally dispersed to give rise to new plants. Eventually, the plant completes its cycle at the end of the growing season when it dies, especially if exposed to frost or in regions where it is grown as an annual.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
Zinnia haageana 'Aztec Orange', commonly known as Mexican Zinnia, is typically propagated by seed. The ideal time to sow the seeds is after the last frost when the soil has warmed up, ensuring a hospitable environment for the seeds to germinate. To propagate by seed, simply scatter the seeds over a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil, no more than 1/4 inch deep. The soil should be kept consistently moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves, they can be thinned out or transplanted to give them ample space to grow.
