Zinnias are colorful, daisy-like flowers native to Mexico and Central America and are among the most popular garden flowers worldwide. They come in a wide range of colors; red, yellow, orange, pink, white, and purple. Zinnias have been cultivated for centuries for their stunning beauty, easy-to-grow nature, and long-lasting blooms.
Zinnias are also commonly used in floral arrangements due to their vibrant colors and long vase life. They are a popular choice for wedding bouquets and other special events. Zinnias also attract butterflies and hummingbirds. These pollinators are drawn to the bright colors and nectar-rich blooms of the Zinnia, making it an essential part of any pollinator garden.
Zinnias are very easy to care for, making them an excellent choice for novice gardeners. Zinnias thrive in full sun and well-draining soil but can tolerate some drought conditions. Zinnias are also relatively resistant to pests and diseases, making them a low-maintenance addition to any garden.
Star Trailing Zinnias
The Star-Trailing Zinnia is a stunning and captivating variety of Zinnia, known for its star-shaped blooms, which trail gracefully from the stem, giving it a unique and elegant appearance. Its scientific name is Zinnia Angustifolia. Star-Trailing Zinnias typically grow to be about 8-12 inches tall and up to 12 inches wide. The plant produces many small, star-shaped flowers in shades of yellow, orange, red, and pink. The blooms are held up by thin stems that trail down gracefully, giving the plant a cascading effect.
Star-Trailing Zinnias are great for borders, rock gardens, and containers. They are also a favorite of butterflies, making them a perfect choice for butterfly gardens. They are typically grown from seed, which can be sown directly into your garden in the spring after the last frost.
To care for your Star-Trailing Zinnia, water it regularly, and deadhead the spent blooms to encourage more flowers to grow. You can also fertilize the plant once a month to promote healthy growth. Finally, if the plant becomes leggy or sprawling, you can pinch it back to encourage bushier growth.