Zinnia angustifolia aka Narrowleaf Zinnia

Zinnia angustifolia is an annual in the aster family. Its common names include creeping zinnia and narrow-leaf zinnia. It comes from northern and western Mexico. Kew places it in a seasonally dry tropical climate. Records also place it beyond its native range. These include the Americas, West Indies, Australia, and Italy. The genus name honours the German botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn.

Plants form dense, upright clumps and grow at a fast rate. Most reach about 0.7–1.3 feet [0.2–0.4 metres] tall. Listed garden heights extend to 1.5 feet [0.46 metres]. The spread reaches about 1 foot [0.3 metres]. Green stems grow straight and bear hairs. The rough green leaves sit in pairs along the stems. Each leaf attaches without a stalk and partly clasps the stem. Leaves are narrow, with smooth edges and pointed tips. A single main vein runs through each leaf.

Flowers appear from summer until frost on long stalks. Each daisy-like head has a ring of showy ray flowers. These surround a raised centre of yellow disc flowers. Species descriptions list white or yellow rays. The rays bend back as the flower head ages. Small, overlapping bracts surround the base of each head. Butterflies, honeybees, and other pollinators visit the blooms. The fruit is an achene, a small, dry fruit. The flowers also suit cutting for use indoors.

Grow this species in full sun and well-drained soil. Clay or loam suits it, and compost can improve growth. It grows well with even moisture but also withstands drought. Missouri Botanical Garden lists dry to medium watering needs. Sow seeds outdoors once the last frost has passed. Seeds can also start indoors four to six weeks earlier. Set young plants outside after the last frost. Plants need little upkeep, and spent flowers need no removal. Its long flowering season suits beds, borders, and path edges. It also works in pots, hanging baskets, and pollinator gardens.

Serious pest and disease issues are not generally reported. Sources note strong resistance to powdery mildew and leaf spots. NC State also links southern blight and southern bacterial wilt. Deer seldom damage it, and it tolerates black walnut. NC State lists it as non-toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. The supplied evidence does not establish any edible parts.