Narrow leaf zinnia - Zinnia angustifolia (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Narrow leaf zinnia

Also known as: Narrow-leaf zinnia, Zinnia, Youth-and-old-age

Narrow leaf zinnia (Zinnia angustifolia) is a flowering perennial plant native to Mexico and the southwestern United States. Narrow leaf zinnia is a popular plant in ornamental gardens. This species is particularly popular when it is bred in hybrid forms with other zinnia species for their pleasant color combinations.

Scientific classification

Species

Narrow leaf zinnia (Zinnia angustifolia)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

Fall

Harvest Time

50 cm

Plant Height

15 cm to 30 cm

Spread

Green

Leaf Color

3.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Green

Fruit Color

White, Yellow, Orange, Red, Brown

Flower Color

Green

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Narrow leaf zinnia

Distribution of Narrow leaf zinnia

Distribution Map

Narrow leaf zinnia is originally native to parts of North America. It has also been introduced and is now found in regions across the globe. Areas of introduction include both temperate and tropical zones in the western hemisphere, western Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean. Narrow leaf zinnia has successfully adapted to various climates and is cultivated in many of these regions.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Culture

Garden Use

Narrow leaf zinnia is an ideal flowering plant for border areas and groundcover in low-maintenance gardens. This species quickly provides exceptional cover when planted in mass, carpeting the area with green foliage and lovely flowers. Consider this species if you want an attractive, drought-tolerant garden but have little time to care for it.

Symbolism

Energy, optimism and joy

Interesting Facts

The natural color of narrow leaf zinnia - the wild type - is orange, rarely yellow. However, today, there is a range of colors of Zinnia flowers. Zinnia angustifolia has been hybridized with other Zinnia species such as in order to get the color variety and some other traits. 'Zinnia angustifolia x elegans' is a popular hybrid, with a wide range of colors.

Name Story

Narrowleaf zinnia: The name of the entire genus Zinnia honours the 18th-century scientist and master botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn. The second part of the name, both Latin and common, describes the narrow shape of Zinnia angustifolia foliage, which makes it distinct from other members of the genus.

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Quickly Identify Narrow leaf zinnia

Compact cluster with a height of 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm)

Opposite, sessile linear leaves, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide

Vibrant solitary flowers with central disk and colorful ray florets

Composite flower heads, 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter, on elongated peduncles

Yellow disc flowers and reflexed white or yellow ray florets up to 6 inches (15 cm)

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Care Guide for Narrow leaf zinnia

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Adapted to warm, dry grasslands, narrow leaf zinnia thrives with low water availability, needing watering twice a week. It flourishes in full sun and benefits from thorough watering during the active growing season to enhance flowering.

Fertilize: Fertilize narrow leaf zinnia every 3-4 weeks with high phosphorus fertilizers for optimal bloom. In spring and summer, use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half-strength. Adjust frequency in fall and winter to align with growth cycles, preventing nutrient burn while supporting health.

Pruning: Narrow leaf zinnia features narrow leaves and vibrant flowers. Prune in early to late spring to remove spent blooms and dead stems, enhancing foliage and bloom duration. Use clean tools to prevent infection, encouraging healthier growth, better air circulation, and a fuller plant throughout the growing season.

Propagation: Narrow leaf zinnia, from the Asteraceae family, features vibrant flowers and thrives in diverse conditions. Successful propagation involves sowing in well-drained soil, maintaining consistent moisture, and avoiding overcrowding. Thinning established seedlings promotes robust growth, ensuring a colorful garden display.

Repotting: Narrow leaf zinnia requires excellent drainage when planted in pots to ensure proper growth and prevent root rot.

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