Zinnia elegans is an upright and sturdy, daisy-like annual that flowers profusely over a 2 month period in the summer.
It can be easily grown from seed (under glass in early spring) and will flower within 6 weeks of planting out.
They come in a many varieties including single3, semi-double and double flowered and make very good cut flowers.
A perfect addition to any flowering border, in cottage style and herb gardens, they make a very good edging to pathways and drives.
Zinnia prefer warm conditions and are generally not frost hardy