Zinnia Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple' (d)
ABOUT
Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple', commonly known as zinnia, is an eye-catching flower recognized for its unique and brilliant appearance. This particular variety showcases a flamboyant display of purple petals that are densely clustered to form a pompom-like shape, distinct for its layered and frilly look. The petals vary in hues, presenting a gradient of purple shades that might range from a soft lavender to a deep, rich purple, often with subtle hints of pink or even mauve. The center of the flower is typically a contrasting color, with a tufted, dome-shaped eye that can be cream or lime green, giving it a striking, two-toned effect. This central cone is surrounded by a skirt of the larger, flat petals that are more typical of zinnias. These delightfully textured blooms create a dramatic display that can easily be the centerpiece of a garden bed or bouquet. Overall, the appearance of Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple' is characterized by its vibrant colors and playful, yet sophisticated petal structure, making it a favorite among gardeners and florists alike for its visual appeal and ability to add depth and interest wherever it grows.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Asteraceae
Synonyms
Zinderella Purple Zinnia, Purple Zinnia, Scabiosa-Flowered Zinnia
Common names
Zinnia elegans.
ToxicityTo humans
Zinnias are not known to be toxic to humans. Ingesting parts of the Zinnia plant is not expected to result in poisoning or harmful symptoms. However, it is generally advised not to consume ornamental plants due to potential pesticide exposure and the lack of information on their edibility and potential effects on human health.
To pets
Zinnias are generally considered non-toxic to pets, including dogs and cats. If a pet ingests parts of the Zinnia plant, it is not expected to experience poisoning. However, ingestion of non-food items can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal upset in pets, such as vomiting or diarrhea, so it is still best to prevent pets from ingesting plants not meant for consumption.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Annuals
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
2 feet (61 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Mexico
Benefits
General Benefits- Attracts Pollinators: Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple' provides a nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
- Easy to Grow: This zinnia variety is known for its ease of cultivation, making it suitable for gardeners of all skill levels.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, they are fairly drought-resistant and do well in hot, dry conditions.
- Long Blooming Period: They offer a long flowering season from early summer to fall, providing continuous color in the garden.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance, aside from occasional watering and deadheading to promote further blooming.
- Vibrant Colors: The Zinderella Purple cultivar offers unique and vibrant purple blooms that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of any garden space.
- Cut Flowers: The blooms are excellent for cutting and creating floral arrangements, lasting well in vases.
- Fast Growth: Zinnias grow quickly and can reach full bloom within weeks of sowing, offering rapid gratification for the gardener.
- Reseeding: They may self-seed under the right conditions, providing new plants in the following growing season.
- Versatility: Suitable for borders, flower beds, and containers, adding flexibility in garden design and space utilization.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Natural Dye: The petals of Zinnia can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, offering hues of purples and pinks depending on the mordant used.
- Flower Art: Fresh or dried Zinnia petals can be used in flower art projects such as pressed flower crafts, creating beautiful and vibrant designs.
- Photography Subject: With their vivid colors and striking form, Zinnias are often used as a subject for macro and nature photography, perfect for photographers looking to capture the intricate beauty of flowers.
- Culinary Garnish: Although not widely known for culinary uses, Zinnia flowers can be used as an edible garnish to add color and interest to salads and desserts.
- Teaching Tool: Zinnias can be grown in school gardens as part of educational programs to teach children about plant biology, the lifecycle of plants, and pollinator attraction.
- Companion Planting: Zinnias can be planted in vegetable gardens to help attract pollinators and beneficial insects, thereby improving the pollination of vegetables and reducing pest populations.
- Floral Arrangement Classes: Zinnia's sturdy stems and long vase life make it an excellent choice for use in floral design workshops and classes.
- Mindfulness Practice: Gardening with Zinnias can be used as a mindfulness exercise, helping individuals focus on the present moment and find tranquility in nature's beauty.
- Creative Writing Prompt: The diverse colors and forms of Zinnia flowers can serve as inspiration for poetry, prose, and other creative writing endeavors.
- Gift Wrapping Decor: Dried Zinnia blooms can be used to embellish gift-wrapping, adding a unique and personal touch to presents.
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 are often associated with remembrance. This makes 'Zinderella Purple' a fitting tribute to someone who has passed away or to signify an important memory.
- Friendship: These flowers symbolize enduring friendship, making them an ideal gift for a close friend.
- Affection: Zinnias can denote affection, suggesting the 'Zinderella Purple' variety could be used to express fondness for someone.
- Absent Friends: In Victorian times, zinnias were given to remember friends who were absent, and 'Zinderella Purple' would carry this meaning as well.
- Daily Remembrance: With their long bloom period, zinnias represent thoughts of friends each day. 'Zinderella Purple,' with its distinct color, can be a daily reminder of a cherished friend or loved one.
WaterZinnias require moderately moist soil, so water them deeply once a week, providing about one inch of water each time to encourage deep root growth. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple' twice a week. Always water at the base of the plant to keep the foliage dry and prevent disease. If you are using a watering can or garden hose, ensure you deliver approximately 0.5 gallons per square foot every week to maintain adequate moisture.
LightZinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple' thrives in full sun, requiring a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. The best spot for these zinnias is in an area where they can enjoy uninterrupted sunlight, which promotes strong, healthy growth and maximizes flower production. Avoid placing them in areas with too much shade, as this can lead to weaker plants and fewer blooms.
TemperatureZinnias prefer warm conditions and do best when daytime temperatures are between 74°F and 84°F. 'Zinderella Purple' can handle temperatures as high as 100°F but will not survive frosts and should be protected if temperatures are expected to fall below 50°F. They are heat-loving plants and will flourish when the weather is consistently warm.
PruningDeadheading zinnias, including Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple', encourages more blooms and extends the flowering season. Prune spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming. The best time to prune is when the flowers begin to fade. Cutting back the plant by one-third in mid-summer can rejuvenate it and lead to a fresh flush of blooms.
CleaningAs needed
SoilZinnias prefer well-drained soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. A good mix for Zinnia 'Zinderella Purple' is equal parts garden soil, compost, and peat moss or perlite for aeration. Supplement with balanced, slow-release fertilizer to support robust growth.
RepottingZinnia 'Zinderella Purple' typically does not require repotting as it is grown as an annual. It is planted new each season from seed or nursery starts directly into the garden or its final container.
Humidity & MistingZinnias do well in moderate humidity conditions. For Zinnia 'Zinderella Purple', aim for a humidity level that mimics a typical outdoor environment since too high humidity can encourage fungal diseases.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Zinnia 'Zinderella Purple' in bright, direct light indoors.
Outdoor
Plant Zinnia 'Zinderella Purple' in full sun and well-draining soil.
Hardiness zone
3-10 USDA.
Life cycleZinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple', commonly known as Zinderella Purple Zinnia, begins its life cycle when seeds are sown into warm soil, post the last frost in spring. The seed germinates, typically within 5 to 24 days, depending on conditions, and produces its first set of true leaves after the initial sprouting of the cotyledons. As the plant grows, it develops a sturdy stem and a bushy growth habit, with leaves that are typically lance-shaped, and it enters a vegetative state. After several weeks, the Zinnia begins the flowering stage, revealing its unique purple, pom-pom-like blossoms, often attracting pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Once fertilized, the flowers will produce seeds, edging the plant towards the end of its life cycle. The plant will eventually die after setting seed, completing its annual life cycle which can be repeated when the new seeds are planted the following season.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to early summer
Zinnia elegans 'Zinderella Purple', commonly known as Zinnia, is best propagated through its seeds. The ideal time to sow Zinnia seeds is after the last frost in spring when the soil has warmed up. The process is straightforward: simply scatter the seeds on top of a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover them with a fine layer of soil or compost, no more than a quarter inch deep. Water the seeds gently to moisten the soil, taking care not to displace the seeds with a strong stream of water. Seeds typically germinate within 5 to 7 days, and the seedlings can be thinned to about 6 to 18 inches apart, ensuring sufficient space for the plants to mature. This method of direct sowing is popular for its simplicity and effectiveness, allowing gardeners to cultivate vibrant Zinnias with minimal equipment.
