Tithonia 'Torchlight'

RHS Plant Profile
Mexican sunflower 'Torchlight'
Plants for pollinators
Annual Biennial

A large and robust half-hardy annual to 1.2m tall, producing a series of bright orange-red, daisy-like flowerheads from late summer to early autumn. The flowers last well when cut, and are also particularly attractive to pollinating insects

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

1-1.5 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
1–2 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
1-1.5 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
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
Unresolved

How to Grow

Cultivation

Plant out after the last frosts in well-drained, moderately fertile soil in a sunny, sheltered position. Plants may require staking

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Bedding
  • Cut flowers
  • Flower borders and beds

Pruning

Deadhead to prolong flowering

Pests

May be susceptible to slugs and snails

Diseases

Generally disease-free