As the seasons change and summer’s warmth gives way to autumn’s crisp breeze, many gardeners begin to think about what they can do to support the winged creatures that make our gardens come alive. For me, that’s a chance to grow zinnias, a perennial favorite that attracts butterflies and hummingbirds in droves. But not all zinnias are created equal – while many varieties can provide some support for these precious pollinators, some truly stand out as superstars. In this article, we’ll explore seven zinnia varieties that are particularly effective at drawing in butterflies and hummingbirds, and what makes them so special.
Why Zinnias are a Pollinator’s Paradise
At first glance, it may seem counterintuitive that zinnias would be so attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds. After all, they come in a wide range of colors – from deep reds and yellows to soft pinks and purples – and their intricate petals might seem like a confusing array of shapes and sizes. However, the secret to their appeal lies in their botanical structure. Unlike some other flowers, which may have tightly closed centers or require specialized tools to access their nectar and pollen, zinnias have an open center that makes it easy for butterflies and hummingbirds to get the sustenance they need. This has made them a staple in many pollinator-friendly gardens, where they can provide a reliable source of food and support for these important creatures.
The Science Behind Zinnia’s Pollinator Appeal
Research has shown that the specific colors and shapes of a flower can have a significant impact on its ability to attract pollinators. In the case of zinnias, their bright colors are particularly effective at drawing in butterflies, which are attracted to flowers with a high concentration of ultraviolet light. This is why red and red-adjacent blooms are particularly popular among hummingbirds, which have a keen sense of vision that allows them to spot these colors from a distance. By choosing zinnia varieties with these colors, gardeners can increase the chances of attracting these precious pollinators to their garden.
7 Zinnia Varieties that Attract Butterflies and Hummingbirds
1. Peruvian Blend Zinnia
One of the most popular zinnia varieties for pollinators is the Peruvian Blend Zinnia, which is part of the Zinnia peruviana species. These smaller-statured flowers have a unique, open center that makes it easy for butterflies and hummingbirds to access their nectar and pollen. With a range of colors including red and yellow, they’re a great choice for gardeners looking to attract a variety of pollinators. Plus, they’re relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in a range of conditions, making them a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
2. Persian Carpet Zinnia
The Persian Carpet Zinnia, with its unique and varied blooms, is another standout variety for pollinators. This Zinnia haageana variety contains a mix of flowers with pronounced stamens and central compound yellow blooms, as well as cactus-like double flowers in a range of colors. With a height of just 12-16 inches, it’s a great choice for smaller gardens or containers. Its compact size and diverse bloom colors make it an attractive addition to any pollinator garden.
3. Profusion Zinnia
The Profusion Zinnia is a highly resistant variety that’s perfect for gardeners who want to minimize maintenance. With a range of colors including pale yellow, peach, and bright pink, it’s a great choice for attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. Plus, its small flowers – just 2 inches in diameter – make it easy to pack a lot of blooms into a small space, increasing the chances of attracting pollinators. This variety is also highly resistant to powdery mildew, making it a great choice for gardens with high humidity or moisture.
4. Cut and Come Again Zinnia
The old-fashioned look of the Cut and Come Again Zinnia is not only charming, but it’s also a bonus for pollinators. These flowers are named for their tendency to bloom even more when they’re cut, making them a great choice for gardeners who want to bring their flowers indoors. With a height of 18-30 inches, they’re a great choice for larger gardens or containers. Plus, their long vase life means you can enjoy their blooms for weeks without needing to replace them.
5. Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia
The Zowie! Yellow Flame Zinnia is a standout variety with its multilayered petals and bright yellow color. While it can be prone to powdery mildew, it’s still a great choice for gardeners who want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Its compact size – just 12-18 inches tall – makes it a great choice for smaller gardens or containers. Plus, its long vase life means you can enjoy its blooms for weeks without needing to replace them.
6. Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia
Benary’s Giant Blend Zinnia is a mix of different zinnia varieties that are all known for their ability to attract pollinators. With a range of colors including red, yellow, and pink, it’s a great choice for gardeners who want to attract a variety of pollinators. Plus, its large blooms – up to 4 inches in diameter – make it a great choice for adding a pop of color to any garden.
7. Benary’s Giant Zinnia
Benary’s Giant Zinnia is a single-petaled variety that’s perfect for gardeners who want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. With a height of 18-30 inches, it’s a great choice for larger gardens or containers. Its large blooms – up to 4 inches in diameter – make it a great choice for adding a pop of color to any garden. Plus, its long vase life means you can enjoy its blooms for weeks without needing to replace them.
Practical Tips for Growing Zinnias for Pollinators
While zinnias are a low-maintenance choice, there are a few things to keep in mind when growing them for pollinators. First, make sure to choose a variety that’s suitable for your climate and growing conditions. Some zinnias are more resistant to powdery mildew than others, so be sure to choose a variety that’s disease-resistant if you live in a humid or moist climate. Additionally, be sure to plant your zinnias in a spot that gets full sun and has good air circulation – this will help prevent disease and encourage healthy growth.
Another important thing to consider is the type of soil you use. Zinnias prefer well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter, so be sure to add compost or well-rotted manure to your soil before planting. This will help your zinnias grow strong and healthy, and attract more pollinators to your garden.
Conclusion
With their bright colors, open centers, and long vase life, zinnias are a great choice for gardeners who want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds. By choosing one of the seven varieties outlined above, you can create a pollinator-friendly garden that’s a haven for these precious creatures. Plus, with a little bit of care and attention, you can enjoy their beautiful blooms for weeks to come.
So why not give zinnias a try? With their low-maintenance requirements and high pollinator appeal, they’re a great choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these beautiful flowers are sure to bring a touch of magic to your garden.
