Benary's Giant Wine Zinnia is a premium open-pollinated cultivar that towers to 36, 48 inches with deep wine-colored blooms, earning its place as one of the most striking cut-flower zinnias available. Hardy from zones 2 to 11, it blooms reliably from early summer through fall frost, taking 63 to 84 days from seed to first flowers. The compact growth habit and deer-resistant nature make it equally at home in cutting gardens, borders, or containers where it can anchor an arrangement with its generous size and rich color.
2
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
48in H x 30in W
—
High
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Deep wine-colored blooms on tall, sturdy stems make this a florist's favorite for dramatic cut arrangements. Direct-sown seed germinates in just 5, 7 days when kept at 70, 75°F, and once established, the plants shrug off drought and thrive in full sun without fussing. Deer and pollinators alike ignore the foliage but cannot resist visiting the flowers, which bloom continuously from June through November in most climates.
Taller zinnia varieties like Benary's Giant Wine excel as cut flowers, delivering long stems and substantial blooms that hold up beautifully in vases. The wine color and robust form make them a staple choice for florists and home gardeners who want arrangement-quality stems without the cost of purchasing bouquets.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seed into 72-cell flats or seedling containers 4, 6 weeks before your last spring frost. Cover seeds lightly and maintain soil temperature at 70, 75°F with a heat mat; germination occurs in 5, 7 days under these conditions. Keep seedlings from becoming root-bound, as transplant stress can cause temporary loss of double-flower form. Avoid disturbing roots when moving to larger containers.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after the last spring frost when soil has warmed. Space plants 2 inches apart for dense cut-flower production or up to 9 inches for more individually robust plants. Handle gently to avoid transplant shock.
Direct sow seed 1/4 inch deep outdoors after the last spring frost when soil is warm. Seeds will sprout in 5, 10 days. This method is recommended and works reliably in warm climates.
Pinch or deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Removing lower leaves as plants grow improves air circulation and reduces fungal disease pressure.
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