Oklahoma Carmine Zinnia is a stunning heirloom flower descended from the prestigious Benary Seeds breeding program in Germany. This annual produces exquisite carmine-violet pompom blooms in semi-double to quadruple forms, each flower reaching 2.5 inches across, making them exceptional for cutting arrangements. Plants reach 30-36 inches tall and flower reliably from seed to bloom in just 60-70 days, thriving in full sun through the warm months from June through November.
9
Full Sun
Moderate
2-11
36in H x 24in W
—
High
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These carmine-violet pompoms are a cut flower lover's dream, with layered blooms so full they look almost architectural. The plants tolerate heat and drought gracefully while consistently attracting pollinators, and deer leave them untouched. Hardy annual growth combined with a German heritage and genuine hardiness in the garden makes Oklahoma Carmine a dependable performer that rewards generous deadheading with endless stems.
Oklahoma Carmine Zinnia excels as a cut flower, with the full pompom blooms and sturdy stems lasting well in arrangements. The prolific flowering habit supports abundant bouquets throughout summer and fall, and the plants themselves contribute structure and color to garden beds, borders, and containers. Gardeners value them equally for fresh-picked arrangements and for their visual impact in the landscape.
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Sow seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last spring frost, maintaining a soil temperature of 70-80°F for germination. Seeds sprout in 5 to 10 days. Plant at a depth of 1/16 to 1/4 inch. Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the germination phase.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after all danger of frost has passed and soil has warmed to at least 70°F. Harden off seedlings gradually by exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days before planting. Space transplants 9 inches apart.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last spring frost when soil temperature reaches at least 70°F. Seeds sprout in 4 to 6 days under warm conditions. Direct sowing is recommended for easiest results with this variety.
Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the season. Pinching out the growing tip when plants are young promotes bushier growth and more blooms, though mature plants naturally branch well.
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“Oklahoma Carmine traces its lineage to Benary Seeds, the renowned German seed house with a legacy of flower breeding excellence. This cultivar represents the refinement of Zinnia elegans through generations of selection for garden performance and cut flower quality, eventually becoming beloved enough to carry the 'Oklahoma' regional identity that many classic American varieties hold. The variety's continued presence in heirloom catalogs speaks to its proven reliability across diverse growing conditions.”