Organic Zinnia 'California Giants Mix'
Organic 'California Giants Mix' zinnia (Zinnia elegans) from the seed company Gaia, a spectacular bloom with giant and vibrant flowers
The 'California Giants Mix' zinnia is an iconic heirloom variety, renowned for its enormous semi-double flowers that can reach 12.5 cm (5") in diameter and its majestic stems that grow up to 1.8 m (6'). Its vibrant colors—pink, purple, red, orange, white, and yellow—create a striking effect in both mass plantings and bouquets. Highly floriferous, this variety produces flowers continuously from midsummer until the first frost, attracting a multitude of pollinators with its abundant blooms.
Organic 'California Giants Mix' zinnia (Zinnia elegans) from the seed company Gaia, a spectacular bloom with giant and vibrant flowers
The 'California Giants Mix' zinnia is an iconic heirloom variety, renowned for its enormous semi-double flowers that can reach 12.5 cm (5") in diameter and its majestic stems that grow up to 1.8 m (6'). Its vibrant colors—pink, purple, red, orange, white, and yellow—create a striking effect in both mass plantings and bouquets. Highly floriferous, this variety produces flowers continuously from midsummer until the first frost, attracting a multitude of pollinators with its abundant blooms.
Adapted to hot, dry climates, these zinnias are highly drought-tolerant, making them ideal for xeriscaping or low-maintenance gardens. Their impressive size and robust growth habit make them a perfect choice for creating dramatic backdrops, cottage gardens, or cut flower rows.
Companion plants : Comfrey, squash, cucumbers, pumpkins, gourds
Nemesis plants : Avoid direct competition with large cucurbits
Spread/Habit : Very tall, strong and upright stems
Plant height : 150 to 180 cm (60 to 72")
Quantity per packet : 20 seeds
Certification : Environmentally friendly product
Special features : Giant flowers, edible petals, highly attractive to pollinators, excellent cut flower
Farming method
Sow indoors 4 weeks before the last frost, 3 mm (1/8") deep in a light potting mix. Germination takes 3 to 5 days under ideal conditions, but can take up to 24 days. To minimize root stress, transplant only when the true leaves are well developed.
Transplant after the last frost to a very sunny location (sun level 3). Space plants 25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 inches) apart and rows 60 to 90 cm (24 to 36 inches) apart. Water moderately (watering level 2) and ensure well-drained soil. Maturity occurs in 60 to 70 days, with optimal growth around 21 to 26 °C.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the flowers before they fully open to ensure they last longer in a vase. Cut them early in the morning when the stems are fully turgid. Thanks to their large blooms and sturdy stems, 'California Giants' make excellent cut flowers, perfect for voluminous bouquets and summer arrangements.
The petals can be used as an edible garnish to add color to salads, desserts, or decorative plates.
Usage ideas
• Perfect as a backdrop to flowerbeds to create height
• Ideal for large, brightly colored bouquets
• A variety valued for xeriscaping due to its drought tolerance
• Excellent in gardens for pollinators
• Decorative edible petals for festive cooking
The 'California Giants Mix' zinnia is a true garden star: magnificent, vibrant, and incredibly productive. A must-grow variety for those who desire spectacular blooms and an unparalleled presence in the flower garden.