Zinnia

Zinnia spp

Zinnia is a colorful and popular annual plant that can add both visual appeal and ecological value to an Arizona pollinator garden. This plant produces large, vibrant flowers in a range of colors that are attractive to a variety of native bees, including bumblebees and sweat bees.

Zinnia is not known to be a host plant for butterfly larvae, but it is still a valuable addition to a pollinator garden due to its nectar and pollen resources. By planting Zinnia, gardeners can support the populations of important pollinators and add a splash of color to their garden.

Zinnia elegans, Common Zinnia, is a warm season annual from Mexico with many cultivars ranging from 12″ to 4′ tall that bloom from May-September. Mostly heat tolerant, but might become heat stressed in full sun during the hottest portions of the desert summer. Prefers amended soil.

Zinnia acerosa, Desert Zinnia, is a native perennial that grows 4″ – 10″ high and produces white flowers with yellow centers April-October.

Flowers: Spring to fall
Family: Asteraceae
Sun: Full
Watering: Every week
Growth Rate: Fast
Soil: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
Temperature: Heat-tolerant, frost-sensitive
Pruning:
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Great Nectar plant for bees and butterflies.
Notes: 

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