Rocky mountain zinnia (Zinnia grandiflora, Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., ser. 2, 7: 348 (1840))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: Nutt.

Bibliography: Trans. Amer. Philos. Soc., ser. 2, 7: 348 (1840)

Year: 1840

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Zinnia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: WC. & C. U.S.A. to Mexico

Description

Rocky Mountain Zinnia, scientifically known as Zinnia grandiflora, is a distinctive member of the Asteraceae family. It was first documented in 1840 by Nutt., as noted in the Transactions of the American Philosophical Society, a well-regarded publication that emphasizes the plant’s longstanding recognition within the botanical community.

This resilient perennial is native to the semi-arid and arid regions of the Western and Central United States, extending its reach into Mexico. Rocky Mountain Zinnia is adapted to thrive in challenging environments, characterized by dry, rocky soils and minimal rainfall. This adaptability makes it an important species for understanding plant survival mechanisms in harsh climates.

The plant itself is relatively low-growing, forming dense mats that can spread across the ground, providing an effective cover in garden landscapes or in natural settings. The vibrant yellow flowers of Rocky Mountain Zinnia are particularly striking, attracting a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. Each bloom boasts a classic daisy-like appearance, with a central disc surrounded by radiating petals, delivering a burst of color that stands out against its rocky surroundings.

In addition to its ornamental value, Zinnia grandiflora plays a role in ecological restoration efforts. Its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion makes it a valuable agent in habitat rehabilitation projects, particularly in regions prone to drought and soil degradation.

Gardeners keen on xeriscaping—a landscaping philosophy aimed at reducing water usage—find Rocky Mountain Zinnia to be a superb choice. Its low water requirement and robust nature ensure it flourishes with minimal maintenance, making it an ideal candidate for sustainable gardening.

With a history rooted in scientific discovery and centuries of cultivation, Rocky Mountain Zinnia continues to be celebrated not just for its hardiness and beauty, but also for its contributions to ecological research and conservation efforts. Its enduring presence across its native range underscores its ecological significance and the critical role it plays in maintaining biodiversity within its native habitats.

Common Names

Eng: rocky mountain zinnia, texas zinnia, plains zinnia
En: Rocky Mountain zinnia, Texas zinnia, Plains zinnia

Synonyms

• Crassina grandiflora (Kuntze)
• Zinnia grandiflora f. viridiflora (W.H.Horr & McGregor)

Distribution

• Arizona (native)
• Colorado (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• New Mexico (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 18, 2021 by John Taylor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 22, 2020 by Aryd’ell Hotelling (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 2, 2020 by Andrade Brenda (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 14, 2022 by Maryanne Schauman (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2004 by EOL − Robert Sivinski (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Oct 20, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jan 18, 2016 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 6, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Oct 21, 2015 by EOL − ellen hildebrandt (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 5, 2014 by EOL − Richard Spellenberg (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3111778)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:261339-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Zinnia grandiflora Nutt.)

Specifications

Growth