Zinnia Zinnia elegans Molotov Mixed
![zinnia [Molotov Mixed]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b589562052.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Zinnia elegans, commonly known as zinnia, is a flowering plant with a dazzling display of mixed-color flowers. This particular variety, Molotov Mixed, is celebrated for its vibrant array of blossom colors, which can include shades of red, pink, orange, yellow, lavender, and even green. The flowers themselves are typically large and showy, with a bold, eye-catching presence. They have a pom-pom-like appearance consisting of multiple layers of petals that can be seen radiating out from the center in a dome shape, which gives them a lush, full look. The petals of the zinnia may display a single hue or may exhibit a gradient or a mix of colors, often with a different colored halo or tips, adding to their ornamental appeal. The foliage of the zinnia is equally attractive, with lance-shaped leaves that have a slightly rough texture and are arranged oppositely along the stems. These leaves are usually a deep green that contrasts beautifully with the vivid colors of the flowers. As a plant that thrives in warm weather, zinnias bloom profusely and for an extended period, often from early summer until the first frost. This characteristic makes them a popular choice for gardeners who desire long-lasting color in their gardens or as cut flowers for arrangements. Zinnia elegans is not only admired for its ornamental beauty but is also known to attract butterflies and other pollinators, adding life and vibrancy to its surroundings.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Common Zinnia, Youth-and-Age, Elegant Zinnia, Garden Zinnia
Common names
Zinnia violacea, Zinnia violacea var. coccinea, Zinnia violacea var. elegans, Zinnia elegans var. elegans, Crassina elegans, Crassina elegans var. elegans.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnia is generally considered safe and non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that Zinnia elegans, commonly known as Zinnia, is poisonous when touched or ingested. However, as with many plants, it is possible for individuals to have allergic reactions or skin irritation from handling the plant, especially if they have sensitivities to certain plant species.
To pets
Zinnia is not known to be toxic to pets. The common Zinnia is typically safe for cats and dogs, and there is no significant evidence to suggest that ingesting this plant would lead to poisoning in pets. However, as with any non-food item, if a pet ingests a large amount of Zinnia, it may experience mild gastrointestinal upset simply due to the ingestion of an unusual substance.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
2-3 feet (60-90 cm)
Spread
1-1.5 feet (30-45 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Zinnia elegans, commonly known as zinnia, offers a vibrant display of multi-colored blooms that can enhance the visual appeal of gardens and landscapes.
- Ease of Cultivation: Zinnias are considered easy to grow, making them suitable for gardeners of all skill levels, including beginners.
- Pollinator Attraction: Zinnias are known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are beneficial for pollination in the garden.
- Long Blooming Period: Zinnias have a lengthy flowering season, providing continuous color from spring until frost.
- Cut Flowers: The sturdy stems and vibrant flowers of zinnias make them excellent choices for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, zinnias are drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering in comparison to many other garden plants.
- Variety of Uses: Zinnias are versatile and can be used in borders, flower beds, containers, and as companion plants in vegetable gardens.
- Fast Growth: Zinnias can grow rapidly, often blooming just a few weeks after sowing, providing quick gratification for gardeners.
- Heat Tolerance: Zinnias thrive in hot conditions, making them ideal for warm climates and summer gardens.
- Low Maintenance: Zinnias require very little upkeep aside from occasional watering and deadheading to promote further blooming.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Artistic Dye: Zinnia petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics, offering a range of colors from bright yellows to rich oranges depending on the flower's hue.
- Educational Tool: Zinnias, due to their easy cultivation, can be used in school projects to teach children about plant growth cycles and pollination.
- Fine Art: Pressed zinnia flowers can be incorporated into paper making for artistic purposes, providing texture and color to the handmade paper.
- Photography: Zinnias, with their vibrant colors and shapes, are often used by photographers as subjects or backdrops for portraits and macro photography.
- Floral Arrangement Teaching: Zinnias serve as a prime example in floristry schools for teaching about balance, color, and form in arrangements.
- Garden Design: Due to their diverse colors, zinnias can be used to create specific color-themed garden designs or provide color accents in landscaping.
- Mood Enhancement: Zinnias can be used to create a bright and cheerful environment, which indirectly helps in elevating people's moods in settings like offices or hospitals.
- Craft Projects: Dried zinnia flowers can be used in scrapbooking, greeting card making, or other paper crafts as decorative elements.
- Culinary Decoration: Edible varieties of zinnia flowers can be used to garnish dishes and salads, adding a splash of color to the presentation of food.
- Sustainable Confetti: Dried zinnia petals can act as a biodegradable alternative to traditional confetti at celebrations, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiZinnias are not commonly referenced in traditional Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityZinnias are not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Memory: Zinnias are traditionally associated with remembrance, making them a common choice for memorials and to honor those who have passed away.
- Endurance: As a hardy and resilient flower, zinnias symbolize endurance and the ability to withstand challenges.
- Absent Friends: Offering zinnias can express a message of missing an absent friend, reflecting the flower's connection with thoughts of friends who are far away.
- Friendship: Zinnias represent lasting friendship, loyalty, and affection, making them a great choice for gifts between friends.
- Daily Remembrance: Their consistent blooming cycle signifies the importance of cherishing daily memories and the moments we share with others.
WaterFor Zinnia elegans, commonly known as common zinnia, watering should be done carefully to maintain moist soil, especially during dry spells. It is important to water these plants at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Water the zinnias once a week with about one inch of water, measuring roughly 0.623 gallons per square foot of soil, ensuring a deep soak to encourage root growth. During particularly hot or windy weather, you may need to water more frequently. Adjust watering based on rainfall, reducing the amount when there is significant precipitation.
LightCommon zinnias thrive in full sunlight, requiring a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily. The ideal spot for these plants is in a location that receives unfiltered sunlight throughout the day, promoting strong growth and vibrant blooms. Avoid planting them in shaded areas, as insufficient light can lead to poor flowering and weak stems.
TemperatureCommon zinnias prefer warm conditions and are most vigorous when grown in temperatures ranging from 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. These plants can tolerate a minimum temperature of around 50°F but frost can be damaging, and they can handle maximum temperatures exceeding 100°F as long as they are well-watered. The ideal temperature for promoting growth and blooming in zinnias lies within the warmer end of their preferred range.
PruningPruning common zinnias encourages bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming throughout the season. It's also advisable to cut back any leggy growth to shape the plant and improve air circulation, which can reduce the risk of diseases. The best time to prune zinnias is in the early morning when the plant is well-hydrated.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Zinnia (commonly known as zinnia) is a well-draining, fertile loam with a good amount of organic matter like compost or manure mixed in. The ideal soil pH for growing zinnias is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingZinnias, being annuals, do not typically require repotting. They are sown directly where they are to flower, as they do not respond well to transplanting. Therefore, they are not repotted but reseeded each growing season.
Humidity & MistingZinnias prefer moderate humidity levels and do not require any special humidity adjustments. They tolerate a wide range but excessive humidity can lead to fungal diseases; thus, good air circulation is essential for their health.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow zinnias indoor with bright direct light and ample air flow.
Outdoor
Plant zinnias outdoor in full sun after frost danger has passed.
Hardiness zone
Zinnias are annuals and do not have a USDA hardiness zone.
Life cycleCommon Zinnia (Zinnia elegans Molotov Mixed) begins its life cycle as a seed that, once planted in well-drained soil and provided with ample sunlight and water, germinates within 5-24 days. The seedlings initially develop two cotyledons, followed by true leaves, as they enter the vegetative growth stage, where they focus on developing a strong stem and foliage. As the plants mature, they enter the flowering stage, budding and blooming with vibrant multiple-colored flowers that can last from a late spring frost until fall. During this time, pollinators such as bees and butterflies play a crucial role in the plant's reproduction by facilitating pollination. Following successful pollination, the flowers produce seeds, developing into fruit that eventually dries, releasing seeds for the next generation. The life cycle can end with the first hard frost, as Zinnia elegans is an annual plant and completes its entire life cycle within one growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Zinnia elegans, commonly known as Zinnia, is most effectively propagated through the sowing of seeds. The ideal time to propagate Zinnias by seed is after the last frost in spring when the soil has warmed up to at least 70 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 21 to 24 degrees Celsius). To do so, seeds should be sown directly into the garden bed where they are to grow, as Zinnias are known to dislike being transplanted due to their fragile root systems. Seeds should be planted at a shallow depth, roughly a quarter inch (about 6 millimeters) below the soil surface and spaced according to the desired final layout of the plants. It typically takes between 5 to 24 days for Zinnia seeds to germinate under optimal conditions, after which they will rapidly grow and can be expected to bloom within a few short months.
