Tithonia rotundifolia
This species is the classic Mexican sunflower for North American gardens. It is a warm season annual with bright orange to red orange daisylike flowers. It thrives in full sun and well drained, lean soils. It blooms from midsummer to frost in most regions. It draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. It may need staking in windy locations.
At‑a‑glance
- Group/Class: species; warm season annual
- Height x spread: 4 to 6 ft (1.2 to 1.8 m) x 2 to 3 ft (0.6 to 0.9 m)
- Bloom window: July to frost (varies by climate)
- Color & flower form: orange to red orange daisylike heads 2 to 3 in (5 to 7.5 cm) across
- Fragrance: 0 none
- USDA hardiness: grown as annual in most of North America; frost tender
- Breeder / Year / Origin: unknown, unknown, Mexico and Central America
- Cut-flower notes: stems are hollow and can be brittle; used as cut flower; handle gently
- Pet safety: unknown
How it differs
- Classic orange to red orange color instead of yellow tones in other species.
- Moderate height fits the back of standard borders.
- Reliable midsummer to frost bloom in temperate gardens.
Strengths
- Heat and drought tolerance in summer conditions.
- High nectar value for butterflies and bees.
- Flowers in average to poor soils.
Care in one minute
- Grow in full sun with well drained soil and neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Water to establish; then water deeply but infrequently.
- Avoid high nitrogen feeding.
- Pinch once at 12 in (30 cm) to branch; stake if exposed.
Watch‑outs
- Stems can be brittle and break in wind.
- Rich soil can cause weak, floppy growth.
- Not frost hardy; tall plants may need staking.
Best uses (tags)
cutting; borders; pollinators; late season; heat tolerant
Provenance note
Native to Mexico and Central America. Widely introduced as an ornamental and commonly grown from seed each summer.
References
- NC State Extension Plant Toolbox – Tithonia rotundifolia
- Missouri Botanical Garden Plant Finder – Tithonia rotundifolia
- University of Wisconsin Horticulture – Mexican sunflower profile
Written by: Your Flowers Guide editorial team
We are a small independent group of flower lovers who research and review each guide using trusted horticultural and educational sources. Learn more about us