Zinnia elegans ‘Zinderella Lilac’ | Scabiosa-Flowered Zinnia

Zinnia elegans ‘Zinderella Lilac’ is an elegant and romantic variety from the beloved Zinderella Series, prized for its unique scabiosa-style blooms in soft lilac and lavender tones. The flowers feature beautifully domed, pincushion-like centres surrounded by delicate outer petals, creating a refined, textured appearance that stands out from traditional zinnias.

The colour palette ranges from gentle lilac to soft lavender shades, often with subtle tonal variations that give each bloom a natural, airy charm. Not every flower will be fully double, but this variation adds to its character. As the season progresses and temperatures cool, plants tend to produce a higher proportion of densely double flowers.

Reaching around 65–75 cm in height, ‘Zinderella Lilac’ produces strong, upright stems that are ideal for cutting. It is highly valued by flower growers and florists for its excellent vase life and its ability to bring soft, pastel tones and interesting texture into bouquets.

Native to Mexico, zinnias thrive in warm, sunny conditions and are among the easiest annuals to grow. With continuous blooming from summer into autumn, this variety is both productive and rewarding.

Plant Details

Botanical name: Zinnia elegans ‘Zinderella Lilac’
Family: Asteraceae
Type: Annual
Height: 65–75 cm
Spread: 25–30 cm
Flower size: ~6 cm
Colour: Soft lilac to lavender shades
Flowering period: July – October
Position: Full sun
Soil: Fertile, well-drained

Use: Borders • Cut flowers • Containers • Cottage gardens

Why Grow ‘Zinderella Lilac’

• Unique scabiosa-flowered blooms with elegant texture
• Soft lilac and lavender tones – perfect for pastel palettes
• Strong stems ideal for cutting
• Excellent vase life (7–10 days)
• Easy to grow and highly productive
• Flowers become more double as the season progresses

Sowing Instructions

Sow Indoors (March–April)
Start 4–6 weeks before the last frost. Sow in trays or pots with well-drained seed compost and lightly cover seeds. Germination takes 7–14 days at 20–22°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle. Harden off and plant outdoors after frost.

Direct Sow Outdoors (April–May)
Sow directly where plants are to flower once the soil has warmed. Choose a sunny, sheltered position. Sow thinly and cover lightly. Thin seedlings to 25–30 cm spacing, avoiding root disturbance.

Growing Tips

• Prefers warm, sunny locations
• Avoid transplanting where possible
• Water at the base to prevent mildew
• Feed lightly during the growing season
• Regular cutting encourages more blooms
• Protect young plants from slugs and snails

Perfect For

Cut Flowers: soft pastel bouquets with texture
Borders: gentle, romantic summer colour
Containers: elegant patio displays
Cottage Gardens: blends beautifully with airy plantings