White zinnia - Zinnia acerosa (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

White zinnia

Also known as: Wild zinnia

White zinnia (Zinnia acerosa) is a small desert shrub that lives in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It develops gnarled, woody branches and rarely exceeds 16 cm in overall height. Thanks to its hardy nature and long blooming period, white zinnia has become a popular ornamental plant in dry regions. The flowers also commonly attract butterflies.

Scientific classification

Species

White zinnia (Zinnia acerosa)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

16 cm

Plant Height

90 cm

Spread

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring, Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of White zinnia

Distribution of White zinnia

Distribution Map

White zinnia is a plant native to North America, where it flourishes in arid and semi-arid regions. Its native range extends to the southwest of the continent. While historically confined to its native terrain, white zinnia has displayed adaptability and has subsequently been introduced and naturalized in other suitable dry regions across the globe.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Prairie, Plains, Meadows, Pastures, Savannas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Symbolism

Thoughts of an absent friend Scarlet: Constancy Yellow: Daily remembrance White: Goodness Mixed: Thinking / In memory of an absent friend Magenta: Lasting affection

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Quickly Identify White zinnia

Creamy-white disk flowers with veined green petals, 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.

Gray-green narrow leaves, 1-1.5 inches (2.5-3.8 cm) long, needle-shaped with pointed tips.

Herbaceous stems with woody base, smooth to slightly rough, green to light brown.

Rounded growth form, compact appearance, young habit becomes woody with age.

Flowers emit a subtle sweet fragrance, blooming from late spring to early autumn.

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Care Guide for White zinnia

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

0 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: White zinnia thrives in arid conditions with significant drought tolerance, needing watering every 2-3 weeks. It prefers dry environments, making it suitable for indoors with controlled humidity. Its long dormancy period highlights its low water requirements.

Fertilize: White zinnia requires regular fertilization with balanced nutrition during the growing season and high-nitrogen fertilizers for vegetative growth. Apply monthly as directed, reducing in late summer and winter. Water soil before and after granular application to prevent root burn and enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: White zinnia has daisy-like flowers and narrow leaves. Prune in early to late winter, cutting back stems for bushiness and removing dead parts. Thinning improves air circulation, and deadheading encourages blooming. Regular pruning maintains health and vigor. Use clean, sharp tools for best results.

Propagation: A member of the Asteraceae family, white zinnia is a resilient flowering perennial ideal for xeriscaping in dry areas. It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation can be done by cutting healthy stems and planting in a moist medium, with rooting hormone enhancing success.

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