TITHONIA rotundifolia (Mexican Sunflower)
TITHONIA rotundifolia (Mexican Sunflower) is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to Mexico and Central America and is appreciated for its vibrant and showy flowers, which resemble sunflowers.
Mexican Sunflower is a fast-growing perennial plant that can reach heights of 5 to 10 feet (1.5 to 3 meters). It has large, rough, and heart-shaped leaves with serrated edges. The flowers are typically bright orange or red-orange and are 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 centimeters) in diameter.
This plant thrives in warm climates and prefers full sun. It is drought-tolerant and can handle a variety of soil types, but it generally does best in well-draining soil. Mexican Sunflower is not frost-tolerant and is typically grown as an annual in cooler regions.
Tithonia rotundifolia is popular among pollinators, particularly butterflies and bees. Its nectar-rich flowers act as a valuable food source, making it a great addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.
Due to its rapid growth and eye-catching flowers, Mexican Sunflower is often used as a background or focal point in flower beds and borders. It also works well in cottage gardens, wildlife gardens, and meadow plantings.
| Number of Seeds | Max Coverage Area (Square Ft.) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1OZ | 2,813 | 100 |
| 1/4LB | 11,250 | 400 |
| 1/2LB | 22,500 | 800 |
| 1LB | 45,000 | 1,600 |
| 5LB | 225,000 | 8,000 |
Scientific Name: Tithonia Rotundifolia
Common Name: Mexican Sunflower
Plant Type: Annual
Family: Asteraceae
Zone: 2 to 11
Native Range: Mexico and Central America
Full Growth Height: 48-72 "
Width in Across: 24-36 "
Exposure: Full Sun
Blooming Season: July to September
Flower: Showy
Pollinators: Butterflies, Humming Birds
Flower Color: Orange-Red with Yellow Center Disk
Tolerate: Drought, Deer, Dry Soil, Heat
Water Requirement: Dry to Medium
Maintenance: Low
Soil Type: Chalk, Sand, Loam, Well-Drained
Soil pH: Alkaline, Neutral
Uses: Fresh Cut Flowers, Cutting Gardens, Gravel Gardens, Cottage Gardens