Zinnia Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Lilac' (Benary's Giant Series)
ABOUT
Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Lilac', commonly known as Zinnia, is a vibrant and eye-catching flower that is a part of the Benary's Giant Series. It features large, showy flower heads that are a soft lilac color, offering a stunning display in gardens and landscapes. The petals of the Zinnia are lush and numerous, creating a dense pompom-like effect. These petals overlap each other and are most commonly found in a shape that resembles a dahlia, adding to their ornamental appeal. The center of the Zinnia flower is typically small and inconspicuous compared to the prominent petals that encircle it. Its foliage consists of lance-shaped leaves that are a deep green color, providing a rich contrast to the light purple hue of the petals. The leaves and stems are both robust and firm, supporting the generous blooms with ease. Though the specific dimensions are not being addressed, this plant is known for its significant presence and impressive blossom size, making it popular for both cut flower arrangements and backdrops in garden settings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Zinnia, Common Zinnia, Youth-And-Old-Age, Elegant Zinnia
Common names
Crassina elegans, Zinnia violacea.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnia elegans, commonly known as Zinnia, is not known to be toxic to humans. Therefore, ingesting Zinnia should not result in poisoning or produce any harmful symptoms. However, it is generally not advisable to consume ornamental plants due to the potential presence of fertilizers or pesticides.
To pets
Zinnia elegans, commonly referred to as Zinnia, is not considered toxic to pets either. Ingestion of this plant should not cause any significant symptoms of poisoning in animals such as dogs and cats. Nonetheless, consuming plant material can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, so it's best to prevent them from eating large quantities of any non-food plants.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Lilac
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Zinnia elegans is known for attracting a variety of pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which is beneficial for the ecosystem and garden pollination.
- Aesthetic appeal: The 'Benary's Giant Lilac' variety offers large, vibrant lilac-colored blooms that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Easy to grow: Zinnias are relatively easy to cultivate and maintain, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners or those looking for low-maintenance plantings.
- Drought tolerant: Once established, zinnias are quite drought-resistant, reducing the need for frequent watering and making them suitable for xeriscaping.
- Long blooming period: They have a long flowering season, often from late spring until the first frost, providing color and interest in the garden for an extended period.
- Cut flower use: The robust stems and long-lasting blooms of Zinnia elegans make them excellent for use in cut flower arrangements.
- Heat tolerant: These zinnias are well-suited to hot climates, thriving even during the summer heat.
- Pest resistance: While not immune, zinnias are generally resistant to many common pests, making them easier to care for without the need for frequent pesticide use.
- Versatility: 'Benary's Giant Lilac' can be used in a variety of garden settings, including beds, borders, and containers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Zinnias like 'Benary's Giant Lilac' can be used as natural fabric dyes, producing colors that range from soft purple to lavender depending on the mordant used.
- The petals of Zinnias can be used in the art of potpourri making, adding color and a mild fragrance to the mix.
- Zinnia flowers are frequently employed in edible landscaping, offering an aesthetic appeal and edible petals to garnish salads and desserts.
- In craft activities, children can use the sturdy stems and bright flowers of Zinnias to create fairy wands or magical scepters.
- Pressed Zinnia flowers can be incorporated into homemade paper, providing a speckled or decorative element for stationery or gift wrapping.
- Zinnia petals can be used in homemade soaps for their color and as gentle exfoliants when crushed or left whole.
- The colorful flowers of Zinnias can serve as natural indicators for pH testing; they change color when exposed to different acid or base levels.
- Zinnias, due to their bold colors and shapes, can inspire artists and designers in various fields, from textile design to graphic illustrations.
- The flowers can be used as a colorful, biodegradable confetti alternative for celebrations, reducing the environmental impact of traditional plastic confetti.
- Zinnia flowers are excellent for practicing close-up photography skills, teaching enthusiasts about lighting, composition, and color balance.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiZinnia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityZinnia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Memory: Zinnias are associated with remembrance, making them a fitting tribute for absent friends or to commemorate a significant loss.
- Lasting Affection: The long-lasting nature of zinnias' blooms symbolizes endurance and persistent affection.
- Friendship: Their bright, cheerful appearance makes zinnias a symbol of friendship and daily remembrance of good times with friends.
- Goodness: Zinnias embody the idea of goodness and kindness, reflecting positive virtues.
- Daily Remembrance: The resilience of zinnias to bloom for a long period is often related to daily remembrance, an encouragement to keep fond memories in mind.
WaterZinnias require consistent moisture but dislike waterlogged soil, so it's best to water deeply whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. For 'Benary's Giant Lilac' Zinnias, a deep watering might entail providing about 1 to 2 gallons per square yard, roughly once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions like heat and wind. Be cautious not to overwater, as zinnias are prone to fungal diseases if left too damp. It's preferable to water in the morning to allow foliage to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of diseases. Adjust watering frequency based on rainfall; less is needed when rain is adequate.
LightZinnias, including 'Benary's Giant Lilac', thrive best in full sun with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They will achieve their most vigorous growth and greatest flower production with ample light. The ideal spot for zinnias would be in a sunny border or garden bed that receives uninterrupted sunlight during the main portion of the day.
Temperature'Benary's Giant Lilac' Zinnias enjoy warm conditions and fare best when temperatures range from 60 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate higher temperatures but may suffer if conditions consistently exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. These zinnias should be planted after all danger of frost has passed, as they can be damaged or killed by temperatures that drop to 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below.
PruningPruning zinnias, including 'Benary's Giant Lilac', is done to increase air circulation, shape the plant, and encourage more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. It's best to prune or pinch back young plants to encourage bushier growth. The ideal time for major pruning is early to mid-summer, before the plant reaches its full height.
CleaningAs needed
SoilZinnias prefer rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. A good mix would be equal parts loam, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Regular fertilization will promote vibrant blooms.
RepottingZinnias, typically grown as annuals, do not usually require repotting. They are sown directly into the garden or started in containers that are large enough to support their growth throughout the season.
Humidity & MistingZinnias thrive in moderate to low humidity conditions and can tolerate dry air. They are well-suited for typical outdoor environments where there is ample airflow and do not require any special humidity adjustments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, good airflow, and well-draining soil.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, enriched soil, space 6-18 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleZinnia elegans, commonly known as the common zinnia, germinates in 5-7 days after the seeds are sown in warm soil, with the best time for planting being after danger of frost has passed. The seedlings emerge and grow rapidly, developing true leaves and a strong root system within a few weeks. As a fast-growing annual, the common zinnia enters its vegetative stage where it produces a profusion of leaves and stems, reaching up to 2-3 feet in height. The flowering stage follows, with 'Benary's Giant Lilac', showcasing large, lilac-colored blossoms that can span up to 6 inches in diameter, attracting pollinators and providing vibrant color. Flowers typically appear throughout the summer until the first frost. The plant then sets seed after flowering, with the seeds maturing and being ready for harvest before the plant dies with the onset of cold weather, completing its life cycle within one growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Propogation: Zinnia elegans 'Benary's Giant Lilac', commonly known as Zinnia, is typically propagated through seeds, which is the most popular method. Sowing can be done directly in the garden soil after the last frost has passed to avoid the risk of seedlings being killed by cold temperatures. Alternatively, for an earlier start, seeds can be sown indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected spring frost. Sow seeds at a shallow depth of 1/4 inch (about 6 millimeters), keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination, which usually occurs within 5 to 24 days. Once the seedlings have developed a couple of sets of true leaves and are sturdy enough, they can be transplanted to their final location, spaced around 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 centimeters) apart to accommodate the mature size of the plants.
