Zinnia Zinnia Profusion Series
ABOUT
The Zinnia Profusion Series boasts a vibrant display of daisy-like flowers blooming prolifically atop lush foliage. The blossoms are notable for their single or double layers of petals arranged around a central eye. Petals can showcase a spectrum of hues including cherry, orange, coral, pink, white, yellow, and fire, with some varieties exhibiting a gradient or bi-color effect. The leaves of this plant are typically mid-green and have a lance-shaped or oblong form, contributing to an overall bushy and verdant appearance. As an alluring feature in gardens, these zinnias attract butterflies and hummingbirds, adding dynamic movement to the aesthetic appeal they provide.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
Zinnia, Profusion Zinnia
Common names
Zinnia Profusion Series.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnia is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects from ingesting this plant. However, it's always advisable not to eat ornamental plants due to possible pesticide exposure and the potential for individual allergic reactions.
To pets
Zinnia is also generally recognized as non-toxic to pets. It does not typically cause poisoning in animals if ingested. Nevertheless, as with humans, it is best to prevent pets from ingesting plants not intended for consumption, as individual animals might have sensitivities or allergic reactions.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Varies
Height
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Spread
1-2 feet (30-61 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Drought Tolerance: Zinnia Profusion Series exhibits a strong ability to withstand dry conditions once established, reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Low Maintenance: This plant requires minimal care, making it ideal for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Long Blooming Period: Zinnia Profusion Series flowers continuously from early summer until frost, providing vibrant color for an extended period.
- Attracts Pollinators: The blooms attract butterflies, bees, and other beneficial insects, promoting biodiversity in the garden.
- Disease Resistance: These plants have been bred to be highly resistant to common zinnia diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
- Heat Tolerance: Zinnia Profusion Series is well-suited to hot climates, able to thrive in high temperatures where other plants might struggle.
- Versatility in Landscaping: They are suitable for use in borders, containers, and as mass plantings, offering flexibility in garden design.
- Easy to Deadhead: Deadheading spent flowers is simple and encourages further blooming, enhancing the plant's ornamental value.
- Variety of Colors: This series offers a range of color options, allowing for creative color schemes in the landscape.
- Compact Growth: The plants have a uniform, compact growth habit, which helps to maintain a tidy appearance without needing to prune or shape.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Edible flowers: Zinnia flowers from the Profusion Series can be used in salads to add a splash of color.
- Art and Craft: The brightly colored petals of Zinnias can be used in art projects, such as flower pressing or making natural dyes.
- Educational tool: Gardeners and educators can use the cultivation of Zinnia Profusion as a way to teach about plant life cycles and gardening basics.
- Photography subject: Due to their vibrant colors and abundance, Zinnias make an excellent subject for nature photography and still life compositions.
- Companion planting: Zinnias can attract pollinators which could benefit the growth and yield of vegetable gardens and other plants in the area.
- Festive decorations: Zinnia flowers can be strung together to create natural garlands for parties and weddings.
- Butterfly gardens: Zinnias are known to attract butterflies, making them ideal for butterfly or pollinator-friendly gardens.
- Seed harvest: Gardeners can collect seeds from Zinnia Profusion flowers to grow new plants the following season.
- Petal confetti: Dried Zinnia petals can be used as biodegradable confetti for celebrations.
- Color symbolism: As Zinnias come in multiple colors, they can be used to communicate different messages in the language of flowers, such as friendship, affection, or enduring affection.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Zinnia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Zinnia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Remembrance: Zinnias, including the Zinnia Profusion Series, are often associated with the idea of remembrance, evoking fond memories of absent friends.
- Friendship: The bright and cheerful appearance of Zinnia Profusion flowers symbolizes enduring friendship and daily remembrance of good times shared.
- Longevity: Zinnias are known for their ability to bloom and thrive over long periods, making them a symbol of longevity and endurance.
- Affection: With its dense, eye-catching blooms, Zinnia Profusion Series can represent affection, suggesting a strong and deep bond between people.
- DIversity: The variety of colors available in the Zinnia Profusion Series symbolizes diversity, embracing differences, and the inclusion of various perspectives.
- Daily remembrance: Zinnias, especially those planted in gardens, are symbols for recalling daily the missing friends or family members.
- Goodwill: Zinnias may be given as a sign of goodwill or as a token of a wish for friends to get along.
WaterZinnia plants from the Profusion series should be watered deeply, providing enough moisture to saturate the root zone, and then allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. They typically need about 1 inch of water per week, which can be equivalent to approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot of garden space. Be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. The best method of watering zinnias is either by using a soaker hose or by watering at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and reduce the risk of disease. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water more frequently to maintain consistent soil moisture.
LightZinnias from the Profusion series thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. The ideal spot for these plants would be an area where they can receive abundant sunlight throughout the day without being shaded. They can tolerate some light shade, but flowering may be reduced in less than optimal light conditions.
TemperatureZinnia plants from the Profusion series prefer warm conditions and are best grown when temperatures range between 60 to 85°F. They can tolerate temperatures up to the mid-90s but might need extra care, such as mulching and more frequent watering to remain vibrant. These zinnias should not be planted outside until all danger of frost has passed, typically when nighttime temperatures are consistently above 50°F. They can endure short periods down to about 40°F, though prolonged exposure to cold can damage or kill them.
PruningPruning zinnias from the Profusion series helps to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadheading, or removing faded or dead flowers, should be done regularly to promote continuous flowering. Pinching back the tips of young zinnia plants can also result in fuller plants. The best time to prune or deadhead is when the flowers begin to fade, which is typically on a weekly basis throughout the blooming season.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Zinnia Profusion, commonly known as simply zinnias, should be rich and well-draining with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. A combination of loamy soil with added compost and peat moss creates an optimal environment for growth.
RepottingZinnias are annuals and typically do not require repotting. They are usually grown from seed each year and do not need to be transferred to new pots during their one growing season.
Humidity & MistingZinnias prefer moderate humidity levels but are quite adaptable. They thrive outdoors where the natural humidity will generally be sufficient for their growth without needing extra attention.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow zinnias indoors with bright light and good air circulation.
Outdoor
Plant zinnias in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleThe life cycle of the Zinnia Profusion Series, commonly known as Profusion Zinnias, begins with seed germination, usually occurring in warm soil with temperatures of at least 70-75°F, taking 5-7 days. Following germination, seedlings establish themselves with primary leaves, and true leaves develop as they enter the vegetative stage, where they focus on growth and photosynthesis. As the plants mature, they enter the flowering stage, characterized by the blooming of vibrant, colorful flowers, attracting pollinators and often continuing throughout the summer until the first frost. After pollination, seeds develop within the flower heads during the reproductive stage. Once mature, seeds can be collected from dried flower heads for future propagation or allowed to fall naturally, potentially self-sowing. Finally, as temperatures drop in the late fall, Profusion Zinnias complete their cycle by dying back, having gone from seed to seed to ensure the next generation.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Zinnia Profusion Series, commonly known as Profusion Zinnias, are typically propagated through seeds as it is the most popular and easiest method to grow these plants. To propagate Profusion Zinnias, the seeds should be sown directly into the garden or started indoors in seed trays about 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant the seeds a quarter inch deep (approximately 6 millimeters) in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until germination, which usually occurs within 7 to 10 days. Once the seedlings have grown and the threat of frost has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors, spacing them about 8 to 12 inches apart (20 to 30 centimeters) to allow ample room for growth. Full sunlight and well-drained soil will help ensure healthy, vibrant Profusion Zinnias.
