Orange Zinnia (Zinnia elegans) is a compact annual flower that brings vibrant coral blooms to gardens in just 50, 59 days. This F1 hybrid thrives in heat and drought, making it especially valuable for southern gardens and hot climates. Growing 12, 18 inches tall, it produces consistent flowers throughout the season and earned AAS Flower Winner status for its brilliant petals, reliable performance, and early blooming habit. Hardy in zones 3, 10, it grows best in full sun with moderate water and neutral soil, rewarding gardeners with weeks of dependable color.
Full Sun
Moderate
3-10
18in H x ?in W
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Moderate
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The Magellan Orange earns its accolades for toughness and speed. It flowers earlier than many zinnias, thrives in heat that stops other plants cold, and produces blooms so prolifically and consistently that you'll spend more time cutting flowers than waiting for them. The coral petals are intense and long-lasting, and the compact growth habit means you can pack more plants into tight garden spaces without sacrificing flower volume.
Orange Zinnia is grown as a cut flower and garden ornamental. The long stems and prolific blooming habit make it excellent for fresh arrangements, and the compact growth works well in borders, containers, and mass plantings where sustained color is desired.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start seeds indoors 4, 6 weeks before your last frost date, keeping soil temperature at 70, 80°F. Germination typically occurs within 7, 10 days. Seedlings are ready to transplant once they develop true leaves.
Harden off seedlings for 7, 10 days before moving them to the garden after all frost danger has passed. Space plants 18 inches apart in full sun. Soil should be well-draining with a pH of 6.0, 7.0.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date when soil is warm. Press seeds onto the soil surface or barely cover; they need light to germinate effectively.
Cut flower stems in early morning when blooms are fully open but still firm. Stems can reach 12, 18 inches; cut longer stems to encourage continued branching and more flowers. Blooms keep well in water for 1, 2 weeks with fresh cuts and regular water changes.
Pinch out the central growing tip when seedlings are 4, 6 inches tall to encourage bushier, more compact growth and increase flower production. Deadheading spent blooms throughout the season prolongs flowering.
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“The Magellan Orange Zinnia was recognized as an All-America Selections Flower Winner in 2005, specifically praised for its brilliant coral color, consistent flower production, and exceptional earliness to bloom. This F1 hybrid represents modern zinnia breeding focused on vigor, reliability, and performance in challenging growing conditions, particularly heat and drought stress.”