Southwest Plant of the Month-Wild Zinnia

 Wild zinnias growing in profusion near the Sandia Mountains east of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Photo by Charlie McDonald.

Native plants of the Southwest must withstand temperature variance, drought and high winds throughout the state. This hardy plant flourishes in the wild flourish in the wild and are essential additions to a xeriscape yard. These hardy plants grow in a low-lying, mounded shape and spread through a rhizome (tuberous

roots) system creating a beautiful low-lying ground cover.
Common Name Prairie Zinnia
Botanical Name Zinnia grandiflora
Zones 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Light Requirements Full Sun, Morning Sun & Afternoon Shade
Flower Color Yellow
Mature Height 4″ tall
Mature Spread 15″ wide
Bloom Time Late summer to fall
Ships As Potted Plant

Southwest Plant – Zinnia- grandiflora

Native Yes
Planting Time Spring / Summer
Soil Type Sandy Soil, Clay Soil, Average Soil
Soil Moisture Very Drought Resistant / Very Water-wise
Amount of Rain 10 to 20″, 20 to 30″, Less than 10″ (with irrigation)
Advantages Deer Resistant, Attract Butterflies, Rabbit Resistant, Native