Zinnia peruviana aka Peruvian Zinnia

Taxonomy

Zinnia peruviana, also called the Peruvian zinnia or field zinnia, is an annual flowering plant in the Asteraceae (daisy) family. It is native to both North and South America, and is often seen growing in gardens, along roadsides, in wastelands, pastures and other disturbed locations. It grows up to 100 cm tall with green stems but yellow or purple outlines. The leaves are ovate, elliptic or lanceolate with 3- to 5-nerved peduncles. It produces 6–21 red, maroon or yellow ray florets around 12–50 yellow disc florets and 3-angled or compressed cypselae fruits. For its growth, it requires full sun and regular watering, but must not be overwatered. Its self-seeding nature allows it to be propagated by the wind.

Common names

Peruvian Zinnia, Field Zinnia, Wild Zinnia

How to care for Peruvian Zinnia

Difficulty

Peruvian Zinnia is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Water

Peruvian Zinnia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Peruvian Zinnia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Peruvian Zinnia requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Peruvian Zinnia will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Peruvian Zinnia to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Fertilizer

The growth of Peruvian Zinnia is gradual and it doesn't necessitate any additional fertilizers. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should suffice to provide the plant with sufficient nutrition. It's important to keep in mind that plants derive their energy from the sun's rays, not fertilizers.

Growth-pattern

The Peruvian Zinnia is a clumping species, with new growth arising from the soil surrounding the parent plant.


More info:
Wikipedia