Tithonia diversifolia
This species is a fast growing shrub sunflower for frost free parts of North America. It forms a tall, woody mound with golden yellow daisylike flowers. It prefers full sun and well drained soil. It flowers from late fall into winter in warm climates. It is vigorous and can spread by seed. It is listed as a high invasion risk in Florida landscapes.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: species; tender perennial shrub in frost free climates
- Height x spread: 6 to 10 ft (1.8 to 3 m) x 6 to 10 ft (1.8 to 3 m)
- Bloom window: late fall to winter; December to June in some subtropics
- Color & flower form: yellow daisylike heads 2 to 6 in (5 to 15 cm) across
- Fragrance: 1 trace (honey scented)
- USDA hardiness: grown as tender perennial only in frost free areas; otherwise annual or die back; varies by climate
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, Mexico and Central America
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Taller and woodier than the common annual Mexican sunflower.
- Yellow flowers instead of orange red tones.
- Cool season bloom in frost free zones.
Strengths
- Very fast growth and large biomass.
- Long bloom in frost free climates.
- Attractive to pollinators.
Care in one minute
- Plant in full sun with ample space and well drained soil.
- Water to establish; then deep water during dry spells.
- Avoid heavy feeding; prune after bloom to manage size.
- Remove spent heads promptly to limit spread.
Watch‑outs
- High invasion risk in Florida; check local guidance before planting.
- Can outgrow small spaces and become weedy.
- Frost kills top growth; entire plant may be lost in freezes.
Best uses (tags)
screening; large borders; pollinators; slopes; heat tolerant
Provenance note
Native to Mexico and Central America. Widely introduced for ornament and biomass; now naturalized and invasive in many tropical and subtropical regions.
References
- UF/IFAS Assessment – Tithonia diversifolia (High Invasion Risk)
- North Carolina Botanic Garden (FSUS) – Tithonia diversifolia
- CABI Compendium – Tithonia diversifolia
- NParks Singapore – Tithonia diversifolia profile
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
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