Tithonia (Mexican Sunflower)

Tithonia is a summer workhorse that performs beautifully in hot and dry conditions, and even does well in poor soil. The tall plants produce beautiful orange flowers that attract beneficial insects and pollinators. 

Sowing Information
Direct seed:
Sow seeds in the garden in early summer once soil has warmed to about 70 degrees. Barely cover seeds as light is needed for germination. Thin plants to about 18" apart. 

Transplants:
Start seeds in seedling flats 6 weeks before the average last frost in your area. Barely cover seeds as light is needed for germination. Germination should occur within 10 days at 70 to 80 degrees. A heat mat is beneficial to initiate germination.

Light Preference
Full sun

Soil Requirements
Well draining soil with average fertility. Excess nitrogen will result in large plants with very little flowers. 

Growing tips
Tithonia is a great plant for hot and dry locations in your garden.  They grow tall very fast and make a great backdrop to flower beds. 

Recommended varieties
​Click on the photos to learn more about each variety

Tithonia rotundifolia (Adaptive Seeds)

Torch (Eden Brothers)

Purchase Tithonia seeds from these sources