Certainly! Here’s a beautifully crafted article for your recipe (or more accurately, plant profile) on **Candy Cane Zinnia (Zinnia elegans ‘Candy Cane’)** — ideal for gardening blogs, floral guides, or seed catalogs:
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**Candy Cane Zinnia (Zinnia elegans ‘Candy Cane’): A Burst of Color for Every Garden**
If you’re looking to add cheerful, candy-striped color to your garden, look no further than the **Candy Cane Zinnia** (Zinnia elegans *’Candy Cane’*). With its vibrant red, pink, and white petals that resemble swirls of peppermint candy, this playful flower not only brightens up beds and borders but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Fast-growing, easy to care for, and striking in appearance, this annual is a must-have for gardeners who love bold color and low maintenance.
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### What Makes Candy Cane Zinnias Special?
The **Candy Cane Zinnia** gets its name from the distinctive streaks and speckles of color across each petal—often featuring red or rose striping on a white or cream background. No two flowers are exactly alike, giving your garden a delightful, painterly look that evolves with each new bloom.
These flowers belong to the **Zinnia elegans** species, which is native to Mexico and beloved for its drought tolerance, sun-loving nature, and ability to bloom profusely from early summer through fall.
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### Key Features
* **Bloom Color:** White, red, rose, or pink with streaks or speckles—like candy canes in flower form
* **Height:** Typically grows 18–30 inches tall
* **Spread:** About 12–18 inches
* **Bloom Time:** Mid-summer to fall
* **Plant Type:** Warm-season annual
* **Hardiness Zones:** Grown as an annual in all zones
* **Sun Requirements:** Full sun (at least 6 hours per day)
* **Soil Needs:** Well-draining, moderately fertile soil
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### How to Grow Candy Cane Zinnia
**1. Sow Seeds After Frost**
Direct sow Candy Cane Zinnia seeds outdoors after the last frost, when the soil has warmed. You can also start them indoors 4–6 weeks earlier.
**2. Choose a Sunny Spot**
Zinnias thrive in full sun. A bright garden bed or container with ample light ensures the most vibrant blooms.
**3. Water Moderately**
Zinnias are drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering.
**4. Deadhead Regularly**
To encourage continuous blooming, remove spent flowers regularly. This also keeps the plant tidy and prevents seed formation.
**5. Give Them Space**
Good airflow reduces the risk of powdery mildew—a common issue with zinnias. Space plants about 10–12 inches apart.
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