Peruvian Zinnia

Although zinnias did not become popular garden plants until late in the nineteenth century, Zinnia peruviana was grown in eighteenth-century gardens and was sold by Philadelphia nurseryman Bernard McMahon in 1804. This South American annual grows to three or four feet and produces mixed yellow and orange pastel flowers throughout the summer. Its small but attractive flowers are very different from improved hybrids now so popular.

In Bloom at Monticello is made possible by support from The Richard D. and Carolyn W. Jacques Foundation.