Difference Between Zinnia and Calendula

1. Morphological characteristics

Zinnia: Also known as zinnia. It is an annual herb. Its stem is straight, the tallest can grow to one meter, and the shortest is only 30cm. The leaves are relatively broad, and the eggs are generally round or oval in shape, 5-10cm long, 2.5-5cm wide, with a slightly cordate base and rough on both sides. The flowering period is from June to October, and the fruiting period is from July to October.

Calendula: It is a biennial herb with hair all over the plant. The shape is oblong. The inflorescence head is usually solitary, with a flower diameter of about 5 cm. The whole plant can grow to about 75 cm, and the shorter ones generally grow to 20 cm. Its flowering period is from April to September, and its fruiting period is from June to October.

2. Growth habits

Zinnia: It likes warm environment and sunshine, but is afraid of being too hot, so avoid long-term exposure in summer. It is also relatively drought-resistant, and even less watering will not have much impact on its growth. Its roots are generally deep, its stems are hard, and it is not easy to fall over. Suitable for growing in fertile and deep soil. The optimum temperature during the growing period is generally 15-30°C.

Calendula: Calendula is native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean coast and prefers a mild and cool climate. It is afraid of heat, so be sure not to expose it to direct sunlight; it is relatively cold-resistant. Normally, the soil should be loosened and drainage should be good. It has a certain degree of drought resistance. The pH of the soil should be maintained at 6-7, so that the plant will have more branches and the flowers will be large and dense.

3. Distribution

Zinnia: Native to Mexico, it is cultivated all over the country and has also been introduced in Xishuangbanna and Mengzi in Yunnan and southwestern Sichuan. Sometimes it is also wild. It generally has horticultural varieties such as single petals, double petals, curled leaves and wrinkled leaves.

Calendula: Calendula is native to Europe. Its colors include yellow, orange, orange-red, white, etc. It has a green heart and a dark purple heart, and double and curled petals in cultivated varieties.

4. Plant Culture

Zinnia: Its flowering period is relatively long and its flowers come in many colors. If you appreciate it as a potted plant, you can look at its flowers and you will see that one flower is taller than the other. This can inspire people's ambition.

Calendula: In Europe and the United States, many people like to cut off its flower stems and put them in bottles for appreciation.