Zinnia grandiflora (Prairie Zinnia): Dwarf Native Perennial for Dry Gardens

Overview

Zinnia grandiflora (prairie zinnia) is a native perennial wildflower of the American Southwest. Bright yellow to golden flowers atop 4-inch plants spreading to 15 inches wide. Blooms late summer into fall. Doesn't break dormancy until early summer heat warms the soil. Perfect for edging, naturalizing, mixed borders, cottage and desert gardens.

Growing Conditions

Full sun only. Fertile, well-drained soil with good air circulation. Tolerates variety of soils. Dry to medium moisture. Deadhead to continue flowering.

Care and Maintenance

Sow seed in succession (direct sow late spring or 55-65°F indoors early spring). Divide in early summer. Low maintenance.

Common Problems

Bacterial/fungal spots, wilt, powdery mildew, southern blight, stem rots, caterpillars, mealybugs, spider mites. Good air circulation helps.

Landscape Uses

• Edging and naturalized areas
• Mixed borders
• Cottage gardens
• Desert gardens
• Herb gardens
• Meadow gardens
• Roadside plantings

Key Features

• Native perennial (SW U.S.)
• 4 inches tall, 15 inches wide
• Yellow-gold flowers late summer to fall
• Heat-triggered dormancy break
• Self-seeds
• Attracts butterflies and songbirds
• Deer and drought tolerant