Zinnias are a sure thing in the garden world. Why? They not only do well in less than sufficent soil, but can withstand most pests and diseases, drought and need little care. Reputation aside, zinnas are a colorful delight -- bursting with bright colors. Whether pale peach, vivid violet or sizzling scarlet, zinnias are a festive all purpose annual.

Native to the United States, zinnias come in a medley of shapes and sizes. Some zinnias are delicate and dainty at six inches tall with round flowers less than an inch across. Others are grand and imposing, stretching to a height of three feet and boasting seven-inch blossoms on strong, wiry stems. Crosses between these two types are known as interspecific crosses. Zinnia flowers may be single daisywheels, double blossoms, cactus-like with plumed rays, or anemone-like with broad, spreading rays.

Zinnias work in many places
Try small to medium zinnias in containers. They make great companions to asparagus fern, licorice plant, and petunias.

Small zinnias make eye-catching borders for summer annuals. They're great for perking up your late summer garden when most annuals have been spent.