Tithonia rotundifolia
Mexican sunflower
T. rotundifolia is a large, branching annual to 2m, with large, broadly ovate leaves and vivid orange, daisy-like flowers 8cm across
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange | Green | ||
| Autumn | Orange | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Tithonia can be annuals, perennials or shrubs, with simple or lobed leaves and long-stemmed, solitary, daisy-like flower-heads in late summer and autumn
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in full sun with shelter from strong winds. Water freely in dry weather. Cool overcast weather results in poor growth
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in gentle heat in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Cut back after flowering
Pests
May be susceptible to slug and snail damage on young growth
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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