Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia)

Mexican Sunflower

Tithonia diversifolia

Vibrant golden blooms mirror summer sunlight, a cheerful pollinator magnet. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Mexican Sunflower.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Requires full sun exposure for optimal blooming; tolerates partial shade but may reduce flower production
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Watering Water deeply when the top 5 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent foliage damage
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Large, heart-shaped, fuzzy green leaves with serrated margins
  • Flower: Daisy-like golden-yellow composite blooms, 7–10 cm in diameter
  • Stem: Sturdy, hairy green stems with branching growth
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist during active growth periods

Fertilization

Apply balanced diluted fertilizer every 2 weeks. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to prioritize flower production over foliage growth

Banana peel compost tea:Soak fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours; dilute 1:20 for root drench to support flower development without causing nutrient burn
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms regularly to encourage continuous flowering through the growing season
  • Trim back leggy stems in mid-summer to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Cut back plants to 15 cm above soil level after the first frost in cooler regions to prepare for winter dormancy
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Pollinator garden plant; cut flower arrangement