Botanical Name: Zinnia × hybrida ‘Profusion Cherry’

Hardiness Zone: Grown as an Annual in All Climates

Size: 12–18" Tall × 12–18" Spread

Growth Habit: Compact, Mounded, Well-Branched Habit

Sunlight: Thrives in Full Sun

Soil: Prefers Well-Drained Soil; Tolerates Average to Poor Soils

Water Needs: Moderate Water Needs; Drought Tolerant Once Established

Bloom Season: Late Spring through Frost

Fertilizer: Light, Occasional Feeding; Avoid Excess Nitrogen

Features: Deep Cherry-Red Blooms, Heat Tolerant, Excellent Disease Resistance, Pollinator Friendly

Uses: Ideal for Mass Plantings, Borders, Containers, and High-Heat Landscapes

Patent Status: ✔ Patented

Propagation: ❌ Propagation Prohibited Without License

More About Zinnia ‘Profusion Cherry’

Profusion Cherry offers one of the deepest, most saturated reds in the Profusion Series, bringing strong color without reading overly bright or harsh. The plants stay naturally compact and evenly mounded, creating a full look whether used in containers or planted in large drifts. Unlike taller red zinnias that can fade or struggle mid-season, Profusion Cherry holds its color well through intense heat and sun. Blooming is continuous and heavy, with flowers covering the plant rather than appearing in waves. The clean foliage and balanced growth habit give it a polished look all season long.

Why We Like It (Our Trials)

In our trials, Profusion Cherry consistently delivered uniform growth and uninterrupted flowering, even during extended periods of heat and humidity. Plants stayed dense and symmetrical, never opening up in the center or stretching beyond their intended size. Bloom coverage remained strong without deadheading, which is a major advantage during peak summer.

We were especially impressed by its disease resistance, particularly against powdery mildew, which often affects darker-colored zinnias late in the season. The foliage stayed healthy and attractive well into fall, making it a reliable choice for both home gardens and large landscape installations. From a trial standpoint, Profusion Cherry checks every box: bold color, strong genetics, and season-long dependability.

Profusion Cherry vs. Other Zinnias

Profusion Cherry is one of those varieties that just works everywhere. Compared to Zahara® Cherry, it has a slightly softer look and fills in a little faster early in the season. Against Sweet Tooth Candy Cane, it’s far more uniform, especially when planted in rows or blocks. I also like how it pairs with Profusion White, creating a classic red-and-white contrast that stays tidy all summer. It doesn’t try to steal the show — it just shows up every day.

Where Profusion Cherry shines is balance. It’s less intense than Zahara® Cherry but richer than Profusion Orange, landing right in the middle visually. Compared to Zahara® Yellow, it feels more grounded and less reflective, which can matter in full-sun beds. While it’s not quite as bulletproof as the Zahara series, it’s easier to design with. Pick Profusion Cherry when you want dependable color that blends effortlessly with almost anything else in the garden.