Common Zinnia
Zinnia elegans

Family: Asteraceae

What it is like

An annual plant. It grows to 1 m high and spreads to 1 m wide. The stem is erect, branching and brittle. The leaves occur opposite one another and can be oval or long. They are deep green and clasp the stem. The flowers can be of various colours such as white, yellow, red, or orange. They occur singly and are at the end of branches or in the axils of leaves. Flowers can be 12.5 cm across.

There are 20 Zinnia species.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It does best in rich, deep, loamy soils. It needs an open sunny position. It is damaged by drought and frost. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America, Central Asia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, East Africa, Haiti, India, Mexico, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, North America, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, Rotuma, SE Asia, Slovenia, Tajikistan, USA, West Indies, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

The young leaves and shoots can be eaten.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed. Seeds should be sown 6-12 mm deep. Plants are spaced 30 cm apart.

Its other names

Local names

Carigal, Htattaya-pan, Lepa cinija, Parbati phul

Synonyms

Zinnia violacea;