ASTERACEAE

Zinnia peruviana

Redstar Zinnia

Wildflowers

Local Context

Invasive exotic. Was nearly exterminated from the estate by a dedicated project to chop of all the flowers (to prevent seeding), but is now on the increase again, especially along the roads in the Northern side of the estate.

Identification

Growth: Upright annual herb (sometimes shrubby), usually growing 30–100 cm tall.
Flowers: Red, reddish-brown, or rarely yellow, arranged in solitary heads at the tips of branches; the flower stalk is hollow and distinctly swollen just below the flower head.
Leaves: Opposite and stalkless or with very short stalks; narrow to egg-shaped (up to 6 cm long) with three prominent veins and smooth edges.
Texture: Leaves and stems are rough and hairy; the flower bracts are papery with dark edges; the petals are persistent and often dry to a purplish color on the plant.
Fruit: Narrow, wedge-shaped seed (about 10 mm long) that is either three-angled or flattened, often with a single stiff bristle.

Did You Know?

In South Africa, Zinnia peruviana is sometimes called the whistle plant because its hollow, rigid stems make perfect natural instruments. By cutting a section and adding a notch, you can create a high-pitched whistle from this common roadside flower.

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