Narrowleaf Zinnia (Zinnia angustifolia)

Narrowleaf Zinnia

Zinnia angustifolia

Dainty daisy-like blooms paint borders in warm hues. Compact annual flowering plant; common name: narrowleaf zinnia.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun exposure; tolerates brief partial shade in extreme midday heat to prevent petal scorch
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Watering Water deeply when top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal disease risk
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost damage in late spring and early autumn
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Linear, narrow, gray-green, 2–7 cm long, smooth margins
  • Flower: Daisy-like heads 2–4 cm wide; petals in orange, yellow, white, or pink
  • Stem: Slender, branching, hairy, upright growth habit
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; increase frequency during extended hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Light balanced feed at planting time. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent leggy growth and reduced flowering

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20 with tap water, and drench soil to support bloom development
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering through the growing season
  • Pinch back young stem tips when plants reach 10 cm tall to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove yellowing or diseased foliage promptly to improve airflow and reduce pest attraction
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA-confirmed non-toxic; no adverse effects for cats

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden border plant, container specimen, cut flower for small bouquets