Mexican Sunflower
tithonia rotundifolia
Also known as: ["Red Torch","Torch Tithonia"]
Overview
A vibrant, fast-growing annual flower native to Mexico, known for its large, daisy-like orange or red flowers that attract pollinators.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","fast growing"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tithonia |
| Botanical Name: | Tithonia rotundifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun exposure
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix is suitable.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; heavy pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for shaping or rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but blooms less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate spacing for air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal diseases.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid compacted soil; mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–90°F or 18–32°C); thrives in heat; sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing stressed plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; plants establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to encourage bushier growth and more blooms; remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/diseased stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; avoid overhead watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or black; plant may die if exposed to frost.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid planting in late fall.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; flowers may drop prematurely; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply to soil; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTithonia rotundifolia is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicTithonia rotundifolia is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicTithonia rotundifolia, commonly known as Mexican sunflower, is not considered toxic to humans. It is widely used in gardens and landscapes without reported adverse effects.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Mexican Sunflower grow?
A: It can grow up to 4-6 feet tall.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, but it may need staking due to its height and vigorous growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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