SANVITALIA

The creeping zinnias (genus Sanvitalia) are four or five species belonging to the family Asteraceae and native to Southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, Northwest China (Province Xin Jiang). The original descriptions of this genus was by Jean-Baptiste Lamarck using samples provided by "M. Gualteri". The variety pictured here is called "Irish Eyes".

Sanvitalia prefers full sun but will adapt to partial shade with less flowering. It is tolerant of most garden conditions. Plant outdoors when all danger of frost has passed and the soil is warm. Space plants 15-20 cm apart. Sow seeds in place when ground has warmed. For earlier bloom, start indoors four to six weeks before outdoor planting. Seeds germinate in 10 to 15 days. Use it as an edging for the front of borders, along sidewalks and paths, and in rock gardens. Sanvitalia trails well from containers.

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.