Persian Carpet Zinnia Seeds

Zinnia haageana
Persian Carpet Zinnia
Seeds per Package: 40

Zinnia haageana ‘Persian Carpet’ (Persian Carpet zinnia) is an annual ornamental valued for its compact, mounded habit and abundance of small to medium, single-to-semi-double blooms in warm, carpet-like shades—often rich oranges, golds, and brick reds with contrasting centers. Native to Mexico, Z. haageana cultivars are prized for their early, prolific flowering and suitability for edging, mass plantings, containers, and pollinator gardens.

Grow Persian Carpet in full sun for the best, longest bloom and most compact habit; it tolerates light afternoon shade but will produce fewer flowers. It prefers well‑drained soil ranging from average loam to sandy mixes and does well in moderate fertility—avoid waterlogged sites and excessive nitrogen, which can cause leggy growth. A light application of compost at planting and occasional balanced feeding will support continuous flowering.

Seeds germinate readily with warmth and light. Start indoors 3–4 weeks before the last frost or direct‑sow after the danger of frost when soil has warmed. Sow on the surface or cover very lightly and keep the medium evenly moist; germination typically occurs in 7–14 days. No cold stratification is required. Harden off transplants before planting out and thin seedlings to avoid crowding.

Mature plants are compact—typically 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) tall with a spread of 8–14 inches (20–35 cm); space plants about 8–12 inches apart for a full carpeted effect and good airflow. As an annual it completes its life cycle in one season but will bloom heavily from early summer until frost with regular deadheading.

‘Persian Carpet’ is excellent for bedding, borders, edging, and containers and makes lovely short‑stemmed fresh cuts. It attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and its colorful, long‑lasting blooms are useful in mass plantings and mixed cottage borders.