Creeping Zinnia
sanvitalia procumbens
Also known as: ["Creeping Zinnia","Sanvitalia"]
Overview
A low-growing, spreading annual with bright yellow flowers and succulent-like foliage, native to Mexico and Central America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Sanvitalia |
| Botanical Name: | Sanvitalia procumbens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or full sun (6–8 hours/day); adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer hours; avoid direct sun in winter if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil or perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep soil consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture without saturating; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSanvitalia procumbens is not toxic to cats. Ingestion of the plant does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSanvitalia procumbens is not toxic to dogs. Ingestion of the plant does not typically cause adverse effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSanvitalia procumbens is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Sanvitalia procumbens?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Creeping Zinnia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its bright flowers.
Q: Can Sanvitalia procumbens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it is well-suited for containers, hanging baskets, or as a ground cover due to its trailing habit.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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