Tithonia rotundifolia. Mexican Torch seeds produce exceedingly bright orange flowers atop massive plants that grow to 1.8m (6') in just a few months. Tithonia does not produce edible flowers, and is not a true sunflower. Grown in large containers (3-5 gallons minimum), plants will stay more compact, growing only to 60cm (24") tall. Tithonia is highly attractive to pollinators, including hummingbirds, and looks great when planted in big clumps or rows. The seeds are easy to collect and dry for future planting, and the massive stalks from the plants can be used for trellising peas or pole beans the following year. Mexican Torch won an AAS Award in 1951.
Annual
Details
Botanical Name
Tithonia rotundifolia
Common Name
Mexican Torch
Hardiness Zone
- Annual
Appearance
Max Height
24 inches
Max Spread
Plant Form
Foliage Colour
- Green
Fall Colour
Flower Colour
- Orange
Edible
Edible Component
Edible Harvest Period
Edible Use
Fruit Colour
Growing
Flowering Period
Moisture
Sunlight
Full Sun
Maintenance
Deer Resistance
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