White Profusion Zinnia Zinnia 'Profusion White' (Profusion Series)
ABOUT
The Zinnia 'Profusion White' from the Profusion Series is characterized by its vivid and eye-catching appearance. This particular variety is noted for its abundant display of pristine white flowers that boast a classic daisy-like shape. Each bloom typically consists of a single layer of flat, overlapping petals that circle around a central eye, providing a clean and elegant look. The petals are pure white, adding a fresh and crisp touch to any landscape. The central eye of the flowers can vary in color, creating a delightful contrast against the white petals. The leaves of the Zinnia 'Profusion White' are bright green, lance-shaped, and can have a slightly rough texture, which complements the striking display of the white blooms. The overall impression of this plant is one of vibrant and cheerful abundance, with a simplicity in its color that allows it to blend well with a variety of other plants in any garden setting.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
White Profusion Zinnia, Profusion White Zinnia
Common names
Zinnia angustifolia 'Profusion White', Zinnia elegans 'Profusion White'.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnias are generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no widespread evidence to suggest that Zinnia 'Profusion White' or any member of the Profusion Series poses a risk of poisoning when touched or ingested. They are not known to contain any toxic substances that would lead to concerning symptoms if consumed. However, as with any plant material, individual allergies or sensitivities could potentially cause mild irritation or discomfort if ingested or if the sap comes into contact with skin.
To pets
Zinnias, including the Zinnia 'Profusion White', are not known to be toxic to pets. These flowers are generally considered safe for dogs, cats, and other animals if they happen to ingest them. There should not be any risk of poisoning or serious symptoms arising from consumption of parts of this plant. However, as some pets may have individual sensitivities, ingesting plant material could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, typically due to the ingestion of non-food items rather than specific toxicity.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
1 foot [30 cm]
Spread
1 foot [30 cm]
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts pollinators: Zinnia 'Profusion White' is known for attracting bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects that are vital for the pollination of many plants.
- Drought tolerance: This plant is relatively drought-resistant, making it suitable for hot and dry climates and reducing the need for frequent watering.
- Heat resistance: It can thrive in high-temperature conditions where other plants might struggle, ideal for warm climates or summer gardens.
- Low maintenance: Zinnia 'Profusion White' is easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep, which is perfect for both novice and experienced gardeners.
- Continuous blooming: The plant has a long flowering season, often blooming from spring to fall, providing consistent beauty in the garden.
- Versatile use: This zinnia is suitable for flower beds, borders, containers, and as a cut flower, offering flexibility in garden design and usage.
- Disease resistance: The Profusion series, including 'Profusion White,' offers improved resistance to common zinnia diseases, contributing to overall plant health and easier care.
- Vibrant color: Its bright white flowers can create striking contrast and highlights in garden landscapes or floral arrangements.
- Fast growing: Zinnia 'Profusion White' grows quickly, allowing gardeners to enjoy mature and flowering plants shortly after planting.
- Improved habitat: By providing nectar and pollen, these flowers help support local ecosystems and contribute to biodiversity.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Photography Prop: Profusion White zinnias are popular in photography for their pristine white petals, offering a stunning contrast in floral and garden photography.
- Eco-Friendly Confetti: Dried petals of the Profusion White can be used as a biodegradable alternative to traditional paper confetti for celebrations.
- Natural Fabric Dyes: The petals can be used to create a subtle dye for fabrics, imparting a gentle hue to textiles.
- Art Supplies: Children can use the flowers as paintbrushes for a fun and creative painting activity.
- Decorative Ice Cubes: Freeze the petals in ice cubes to add an elegant touch to summer drinks and cocktails.
- Culinary Garnish: Safe for consumption, the petals can be used to add a flourish to salads and desserts, though they are not commonly eaten.
- Seed Harvesting: The Profusion White zinnia is an easy plant from which to collect seeds for next season's planting or for sharing with fellow gardeners.
- Themed Garden Displays: White zinnias can be used in themed garden displays, such as moon gardens, which utilize white and pale plants to glow in the moonlight.
- Bee and Butterfly Feeder: Although not unusual, Profusion White zinnias serve as an excellent food source for pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
- Crafting Potpourri: Dried Profusion White zinnias can be mixed with other dried flowers and spices to create fragrant potpourri.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Zinnia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Zinnia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Memory: Zinnias in general are associated with remembrance, stemming from the Mexican tradition where they are used to honor the deceased during Dia de los Muertos.
- Lasting Affection: Zinnias represent thoughts of absent friends and enduring affection, making them a common flower to be given to friends who are missed.
- Goodness: The white color of 'Profusion White' Zinnias carries the universal symbolism of purity and goodness.
- Innocence: White flowers are often associated with innocence and cleanliness, enhancing the goodwill the zinnia naturally represents.
- Daily Remembrance: The bloom of the zinnia through many months symbolizes daily remembrance of fond memories and cherished thoughts.
WaterZinnia 'Profusion White' should be watered regularly but it's important not to overwater; ensure the soil is dry to the touch between waterings. A thorough watering once a week is usually sufficient, but this may need to increase to two or three times per week during hot or dry periods. When watering, aim to provide about one inch of water, either by rainfall or manual watering, directly to the soil to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Deep, infrequent waterings are better than frequent, shallow ones, as this encourages deep root growth.
LightZinnias prefer full sun and thrive in locations that receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for Zinnia 'Profusion White' is an area with unhindered exposure to the sun throughout the day, which boosts flower production and maintains vibrant foliage. Avoid planting in shady spots, as this will reduce blooming and can lead to poor plant health.
TemperatureZinnia 'Profusion White' thrives in warm temperatures and does not tolerate frost. The ideal temperature range for zinnias is between 60°F and 85°F. The plant can survive temperatures as high as the mid-90s but may require additional watering to cope with the heat. Avoid planting before the last frost date in spring, as zinnias are sensitive to cold and should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F.
PruningPruning is crucial for Zinnia 'Profusion White' to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to redirect the plant's energy into producing new blooms and maintaining a neat appearance. The best time for a more significant pruning is mid-season, when cutting back can rejuvenate the plants for a new flush of growth and flowers. Generally, zinnias should be pruned every two to three weeks during the blooming period for optimal health and flower production.
CleaningAs needed
SoilZinnias prefer well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5; a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite would be ideal for Profusion White Zinnias.
RepottingProfusion White Zinnias are typically grown as annuals, so regular repotting is not necessary; plant fresh each growing season in nutrient-rich soil.
Humidity & MistingProfusion White Zinnias are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels but thrive best with moderate ambient humidity; they do not require high humidity environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, well-draining soil, and adequate space for growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, use rich soil, and space 6-8 inches apart.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleZinnia 'Profusion White' begins its life cycle as a seed, with germination typically occurring within 5 to 7 days under optimal conditions of warmth and moisture. The seedling stage quickly follows, where the plant develops its first true leaves and begins to photosynthesize. As it enters the vegetative stage, the zinnia grows rapidly, producing stems, leaves, and a root system. The plant then progresses to the flowering stage, where it produces distinctive white flowers with a central eye of yellow, attracting pollinators to its blooms. Following pollination, the zinnia enters the fruiting stage, developing dry, papery seed heads containing many new seeds. Finally, as temperatures drop or resources become scarce, the annual zinnia completes its life cycle by dying, while its seeds remain dormant until conditions are favorable again for germination.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
Zinnia 'Profusion White', commonly known as Profusion White Zinnia, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow Zinnia seeds is after the last frost date in your area when the soil temperature has reached at least 70°F (21°C). To propagate, seeds are sown directly into well-draining soil at a depth of about a quarter of an inch (6 mm). The seeds generally germinate within 5 to 24 days. Once seedlings have grown enough to handle, usually when they have a couple of sets of true leaves, they should be thinned out to about 8 to 18 inches (20 to 45 cm) apart to allow adequate space for growing. This method is widely used due to its simplicity and the fact that it does not require complex equipment.
