Lilac Empress Zinnia is a tall, commanding heirloom flower that reaches 30-36 inches high, producing striking lilac blooms from early summer through the first frost. This heat-loving annual germinates in just 5-10 days and reaches full flower in 63-84 days from seed, making it fast enough to sow directly into the garden after spring frost. It thrives in full sun with moderate water and tolerates drought once established, while attracting pollinators throughout its long bloom season from June through November.
1
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
36in H x 12in W
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High
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Standing 30-36 inches tall with a refined lilac color, this zinnia commands attention in any garden and flowers reliably for five months or more. Unlike many tall zinnias that require staking, its sturdy growth and generous spacing tolerance (just one inch between plants) let it stand proudly on its own. The heirloom lineage and genuine deer resistance make it a no-fuss choice for gardeners who want elegance without constant intervention.
Lilac Empress Zinnia excels as a cut flower, with blooms that stand tall in arrangements and persist in the vase for days. It fills garden beds, borders, and cottage gardens with color from midsummer into fall, creating vertical interest among shorter perennials and annuals. The long flowering window and abundant blooms make it especially valuable for pollinators throughout the season.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost, keeping soil and air at 70-80°F during germination. Transplant outdoors after the last frost date when soil has warmed.
Harden off seedlings gradually over 7-10 days before moving to the garden. Transplant after all danger of frost has passed into warm soil.
Direct sow outdoors after the last spring frost when soil has warmed. This variety germinates quickly and reliably outdoors. Plant at the recommended spacing of one inch apart.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Pinching back young plants when they reach 6-8 inches tall promotes bushier growth and more flowers, though this is optional with this tall variety.
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