Wild Zinnia (Zinnia grandiflora)

U.S. Forest Service
Rangeland Management
Botany Program
1400 Independence Ave., SW, Mailstop Code: 1103
Washington DC 20250-1103

By Steve Olson

Wild zinnia, also called prairie zinnia or Rocky Mountain zinnia, is a mounded perennial that grows 4-8 inches high and slowly spreads by rhizomes to become a groundcover. Papery yellow flowers cover the plants from mid-summer until frost. It thrives in rugged terrain preferring hot sunny spots with well-drained soil.

Zinnias are true American natives found in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. There are about 17 different species of annuals and perennials with the best know being the common annual zinnia (Zinnia elegans) from which plant breeders have created a spectacular array of cultivars.

The wild zinnia is becoming more appreciated as a garden plant and it is now found on several lists of recommended water-wise plants for western gardeners. An internet search using the scientific name, Zinnia grandiflora, will lead you to several sources of plants and seeds. It is a sturdy spreading perennial once established, but it will not break dormancy or grow until early summer heat arrives, so be patient.