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Annual Biennial

Tithonia rotundifolia
  • RHS Plants for pollinators

Mexican sunflower

A large, branching annual to 2m, with large, broadly ovate leaves and vivid orange, daisy-like flowers 8cm across

Other common names
goldflower of the Incas
Mexican marigold
Synonyms
Tithonia speciosa
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Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Orange Green
Autumn Orange Green
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
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
  • Wildlife gardens
  • 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

Get involved

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