Zinnia Zinnia elegans Pulcino Mixed (d)
![zinnia [Pulcino Mixed]](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fplants-admin.emdemapps.com%2Fimages%2Fplants%2F%2Fimages%2F604b5f4c86588.png&w=3840&q=75)
ABOUT
Zinnia elegans, also known as common zinnia, is a flowering plant with a vibrant and colorful appearance. The Pulcino Mixed variety presents a range of hues, typically including pinks, yellows, oranges, reds, whites, and purples. The blossoms are eye-catching, with a multi-layered petal structure that gives them a full, rounded look resembling pom-poms or dahlia flowers. The petals are most often seen with a solid color, but they can also be bicolored with different shades, sometimes with one color at the base of the petal and another at the tip or with streaks and speckles. The center of the flower is usually a different, contrasting color, giving it a rich depth that attracts both garden admirers and pollinators like butterflies and bees. The leaves of the common zinnia are typically a bright green, lance-shaped, and can vary in texture from smooth to slightly hairy. The foliage provides a lush backdrop for the bold, standout blooms which are held aloft by sturdy stems, making them favorites in gardens as borders or for providing an eye-catching splash of color in flower arrangements.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Youth-and-Age, Common Zinnia, Elegant Zinnia
Common names
Zinnia violacea, Crassina elegans, Crassina pulchella elegans, Zinnia angustifolia elegans, Zinnia elegans var. angustifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnia is generally considered a non-toxic plant to humans. There is no well-documented toxicity associated with Zinnia elegans, and it is not known to cause poisoning if ingested. Thus, accidental ingestion typically does not lead to any harmful effects. However, individuals with sensitive skin may possibly experience irritation if they handle the plant and have a reaction to its foliage or sap. Always exercise caution and wash hands after handling plants if sensitivity is a concern.
To pets
Zinnia is generally recognized as non-toxic to pets as well. It is not known to cause poisoning in pets such as cats and dogs. In the event that a pet ingests part of a Zinnia plant, it is unlikely to experience any serious symptoms of toxicity. However, like with any non-food plant, ingestion can sometimes lead to mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea, due to the foreign matter in the digestive tract rather than toxicity. It is always advisable to monitor pets and prevent them from eating plants to avoid such digestive disturbances.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Mixed
Height
1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
2-11
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Zinnias are known to attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, promoting pollination.
- Easy to Grow: Zinnia elegans has a reputation for being easy to cultivate, making it ideal for beginner gardeners.
- Vibrant Colors: This variety offers a mix of bright colors that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden space.
- Cut Flowers: Zinnias have long stems and a long vase life, making them perfect for bouquets and floral arrangements.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, zinnias are relatively drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering.
- Rapid Growth: Zinnias grow quickly, allowing for a shorter period from sowing to flowering.
- Heat Tolerance: They are known for their ability to withstand high temperatures, thriving in hot summer climates.
- Versatility: Suitable for beds, borders, and containers, zinnias are versatile in garden design and usage.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Zinnia can serve as a natural food coloring. The petals of zinnia flowers can be dried and powdered to use as a natural colorant in culinary creations.
- These flowers are used in art projects. The vibrant colors of zinnia petals make them a popular choice for inclusion in pressed flower art or natural crafts.
- As a companion plant in the vegetable garden. Zinnias can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control pest populations.
- They are used for educational purposes. Zinnias are easy to grow and are often used in school projects to teach children about plant biology and gardening.
- Zinnias can be part of a natural dye for fabrics. The pigments from zinnia flowers can be used to dye yarns and textiles.
- They are utilized in potpourri. Dried zinnia petals retain their color and can be added to potpourri mixes for a lovely display that also adds fragrance to a room.
- Zinnia elegans petals can be sprinkled on salads or desserts for an edible garnish that adds a burst of color to the presentation of dishes.
- Photography prop. Their bright and varied colors make zinnias a popular choice for photographers looking to add a natural element to their compositions.
- Zinnias are used in ceremonies as symbolic flowers. Depending on the culture, they can signify thoughts of absent friends or lasting affection, making them suitable for specific events.
- They are sometimes used in flotation devices for flower arrangements. The stems and blooms can be used to help create buoyancy and support other flowers in intricate water-based centerpieces.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Zinnia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Zinnia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Endurance: Zinnia elegans represents endurance due to its ability to withstand harsh conditions and still produce vibrant flowers.
- Remembrance: It is often associated with the memory of absent friends, symbolizing an enduring affection that remains despite separation or loss.
- Daily remembrance: The flower suggests a reminder to think of absent loved ones on a daily basis.
- In memory of an absent friend: This symbolism is tied to the tradition of giving zinnias to someone who has recently lost a friend as a symbol of lasting friendship.
- Goodness and kindness: The vibrant, multi-petaled nature of the zinnia represents a multi-faceted embodiment of goodness and kindness.
- Lasting affection: Its long-lasting nature and the wide range of colors symbolize an affection that does not fade.
WaterZinnia (common zinnia) should be watered regularly to maintain evenly moist soil, especially during dry spells. They prefer a moderate amount of water, so aim to water deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water, which translates to approximately 0.623 gallons per square foot. In particularly hot or windy weather, checking the soil moisture more frequently is important, as zinnias may require additional watering. Avoid overhead watering to prevent mildew and other diseases, instead water at the base of the plant to keep the leaves and flowers dry.
LightZinnias thrive in full sunlight, so the best spot for Zinnia elegans 'Pulcino Mixed' is a location where they can receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. They perform well in bright, unfiltered light, which promotes strong, healthy growth and maximizes flower production. Avoid planting them in areas with a lot of shade, as this can lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
TemperatureZinnias are warm-weather flowers and prefer temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. They can tolerate minimum temperatures down to 50°F but will be damaged by frost. Maximum temperatures should not consistently exceed 85°F, as prolonged heat may stress the plants and affect blooming. It's important to provide a warm environment, especially during the growing season.
PruningPruning, or deadheading, zinnias encourages more blooms and a bushier plant habit. Regularly remove the spent flowers, cutting them back to the next bud or leaf to promote continuous flowering throughout the season. The best time for pruning zinnias is in the late spring or early summer months when the flowers begin to fade. This will also help reduce the likelihood of disease by improving air circulation around the plants.
CleaningAs needed
SoilZinnias require a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A blend of equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat or perlite would be ideal for providing the nutrients and drainage that Common Zinnias need.
RepottingCommon Zinnias, being annuals, generally do not require repotting as they complete their life cycle within one growing season and are then replanted.
Humidity & MistingCommon Zinnias are tolerant of a wide range of humidity levels and do best in moderate conditions; they do not require special humidity care.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure full sun, warm temps, and well-draining soil for indoor Common Zinnias.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun, well-draining soil, and space adequately outdoors.
Hardiness zone
2-11 USDA
Life cycleZinnia elegans, commonly known as common zinnia, begins its life as a seed that, when sown in fertile, well-draining soil and provided with warmth and moisture, germinates within 5-7 days. The seedling stage follows, characterized by the emergence of the first true leaves after the initial cotyledons, during which the plant requires ample sunlight and water to establish a strong root system. As the plant enters the vegetative stage, it develops a robust stem and a lush foliage canopy, preparing for the flowering stage. Flowering occurs typically within 60 to 70 days from sowing, where the plant produces vibrant, multi-petaled flowers in a variety of colors, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed heads containing numerous tiny seeds, thus completing the reproductive stage. Finally, as temperatures cool or resources become scarce, the plant enters senescence, where it dies back, leaving seeds which can germinate to begin the cycle anew in the next growing season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Summer
Zinnia elegans, commonly known as Zinnias, are primarily propagated by seed. The most popular method of propagation for Zinnias involves starting the seeds indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last expected frost date. To propagate Zinnias by seed, fill seed-starting trays or small pots with a well-draining soil mix and sow the seeds lightly covering them with a fine layer of soil, no more than a 1/4 inch (approximately 6 millimeters) deep. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged and maintain a temperature around 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit (24-27 degrees Celsius) to ensure good germination. Typically, Zinnia seeds will germinate in 5 to 7 days under optimal conditions. Once the seedlings have several true leaves and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
