Zinnias are a family of about 20 species of plants, primarily found in North America, with a few species found further south. They produce large blooms of mixed colours and can come in a wide range of sizes, shapes and hues. People often cultivate them particularly for their ability to attract birds and butterflies to their gardens.
Zinnias are named in honour of the German anatomist and botanist Johann Gottfried Zinn (1727-1759), who made significant contributions to the study of the anatomy of the eye, as well as being the director of the botanical gardens of the University of Göttingen.
Before this however, Spanish explorers called the plant “mal de ojos” (“sickness of the eye”) as they did not consider it particularly attractive. In the 18th century they brought it back to Europe with them and today they are some of the most popular and well liked garden plants!
Zinnias are also the first flowers to be grown in space! In January 2016 pictures were released by NASA of a Zinnia blooming aboard the International Space Station.
In flower symbolism, Zinnias are said to stand for endurance (due to them blooming all the way from mid-summer to first frost), but can also represent lasting friendship, goodness and remembrance.
Find the Zinnia interesting?