Zinnia Giants of California
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Description
Zinnia 'Giants of California' Seeds
If you want flowers that look like Dahlias but grow as easily as daisies, 'Giants of California' is the variety for you. Bred specifically for size and substance, these plants produce massive, semi-double to fully double flowers—up to 12cm (nearly 5 inches!) across—on tall, sturdy stems. The flat, overlapping petals create perfect, almost geometric blooms in a vibrant fiesta of hot colours: cherry red, bright orange, canary yellow, deep violet, hot pink, and coral.
These are the undisputed kings of the cutting patch. Just a few stems fill a vase with bold, architectural colour that lasts for 7-10 days. They are heat-loving, sun-worshipping plants that actually get better and better as the summer gets hotter, flowering more prolifically as temperatures rise. They bloom tirelessly from mid-summer right through to the first killing frost, providing months of non-stop cutting material.
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🌿 Understanding the Plant
Zinnia elegans 'Giants of California' is a Half-Hardy Annual (H2). Originating from Mexico, it thrives in hot, dry conditions with intense sunshine. In the UK, it is the ultimate "summer performer," truly coming into its own from July until the first sharp frosts of autumn.
The "Heat-Worshipper" Rule: Zinnias absolutely detest cold and wet conditions. They will "sulk"—turning yellow and refusing to grow—if planted out too early into chilly UK soil. Success depends on waiting for the genuine warmth of June.
Wildlife Champion: These giants are a major draw for butterflies and bees. Their large, flat-petalled landing platforms and rich nectar supply make them a high-energy feeding station during the peak of summer.
🌱 Growing Guide
Zinnias grow rapidly once the weather warms up, but they require a gentle hand during establishment.
How to Sow:
Option 1 - Indoor Sowing (Best): Sow into module trays or individual pots from mid-April to mid-May to minimise root disturbance. Sow 5mm deep and keep warm at 20°C; they germinate quickly in 5-10 days. Option 2 - Direct Sow: Sow directly into prepared beds in June once the soil is warm.
Where to Plant:
Plant out in early June in a sheltered, full sun position. They require rich, fertile, free-draining soil. Because they reach up to 100cm, they benefit from support—run horizontal twine between stakes to create a supportive grid.
Ongoing Care:
Pinching: When plants are 15cm tall, pinch out the central growing tip to encourage branching and more flower heads. Watering: Always water at the base of the plant. Wet foliage encourages powdery mildew, which Zinnias are susceptible to in humid UK weather. Feed every two weeks with a liquid tomato fertiliser once they start to bloom.
📋 Plant Specifications
| Botanical Name | Zinnia elegans 'Giants of California' |
| Common Name | Giant Zinnia / Youth-and-Age |
| Plant Type | Half-Hardy Annual |
| Hardiness | H2 (Needs frost protection) |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun ☀️ (Essential) |
| Height | 90cm - 100cm (Tall florist type) |
| Spread | 45cm |
| Spacing | Plant 30cm apart |
| Flowering Period | July to October/November |
| Perfect For | ✂️ Premier Cut Flower 🦋 Butterfly Magnet 🔥 Hot Colour Schemes 🏗️ Architectural Structure |
| Seeds per Packet | Approximately 100 seeds |
🤝 Beautiful Garden Combinations
The bold, rigid forms of these giant Zinnias create high-impact displays when paired with contrasting textures :
- ☁️ Ageratum 'Timeless Mix': The Texture Masterclass. The bold, waxy petals of the Zinnia contrast beautifully with the soft, fuzzy "powder puffs" of Ageratum, creating a sophisticated, multi-dimensional border.
- 🏮 Amaranthus 'Love-Lies-Bleeding': The Tropical Clash. The tall, upright Zinnia heads paired with the cascading, rope-like tassels of Amaranthus create a high-energy, exotic look perfect for late summer.
📅 Sowing & Flowering Calendar
Sow indoors in spring or direct sow in June. Flowers from midsummer to the first frosts.
🦋 Butterfly Magnet
Zinnias are widely considered one of the best annuals for attracting butterflies. The huge, flat-topped blooms of 'Giants of California' act as stable landing pads, allowing butterflies to feed easily in the heat of a summer afternoon.
📖 Want more detailed growing advice?
View our Complete Growing Guide for Zinnias →
Delivery & Returns
Delivery:
Delivery to mainland UK is calculated at checkout. For all other areas and large orders please ask for a quote. Orders will be sent by express next day delivery (DPD). They will be dispatched on a next working day service, with the exception of Ireland where it may take two days. Please allow up to 48 hours for delivery in the UK as the couriers may have already been and collected on the day you send your order in. Smaller orders for pouches, pockets, bags and pots may be sent via Royal Mail delivery. Please ensure you supply an email address and a mobile so you can be updated about your delivery. Should you have any problems with your delivery, please contact us at sales@naturalgrower.co.uk.Special Deliveries
Saturday or weekday morning deliveries can be arranged, but there will be a surcharge. Please contact us to request a price for either of these delivery services. If you need a parcel sending outside of the UK, please contact us for a quote.Returns:
If you are not completely happy with any product that you have ordered from us, you may return it to us in its original condition any time within 14 calendar days from the date of dispatch. Products must be returned in their original condition. Please contact us at sales@naturalgrower.co.uk to arrange a return. If you return a product by post, you will need to pay the costs of returning the product to us and obtain proof of posting.
Be a smarter gardener
Gardening organically is a more affordable and long term alternative to using chemical fertilisers. Natural Grower products eliminate waste because the nutrients are slowly released to the plants as they need them. Over the long-term you save money because your soil health naturally improves, which in turn produces healthier, stronger, disease resistant plants. Chemical products may cost less financially in the short term, but they don’t provide any long-term benefits and the damage they do to the natural eco-system in the soil is costly.
Slow release for sustained growth
Organic fertilisers are broken down slowly by organisms in the soil to produce a more measured, consistent, natural release of nutrients. This results in uniform growth with strong stems and leaves, unlike chemical fertilisers which provide a sudden boost resulting in tall lanky plants. Stronger plants are more resistant to disease, and with the presence of mycorrizhal fungi to strengthen the roots, the plants, soil and fungi all work together long-term to create the perfect natural eco-system.
Love your land
The organic matter in Natural Grower will help keep your soil or compost in optimum condition, retain moisture over the dry summer months and improve the health and structure of your soil. The presence of natural Mycorrhizal fungi in our products enhances root growth, enabling plants to extract nutrients and absorb water more efficiently from the soil or compost. By using our products you will be supporting and enhancing the natural eco-system in the soil.
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Natural Grower’s chemical free fertiliser products are approved organic, biodynamic and vegan. Plant-based and free from chemicals they are safe to use around wildlife, pets and children. Eco-friendly and sustainably produced in the UK. Our packaging is made from recycled plastic where possible and is all 100% recyclable. We are always happy to refill used containers, and often sell our products in reused containers or slightly damaged packaging at a reduced price. Reduce, reuse, recycle.
