Tithonia

Sometimes called Mexican sunflower, the genus Tithonia is named for Tithonus, a mortal man in Greek mythology who was the lover of Eos, goddess of the dawn.  There are just over a dozen species found here, the best known of which is Tithonia rotundifolia. Native to the southernmost parts of the US along with Mexico and central America, this is a reasonably fast growing annual that ranges from 4-10 ft. tall and features quite beautiful, daisy-like flowers in shades that range from reddish orange to a rich apricot. Many people have compared the flowers in appearance to single flowered dahlias. 

Tithonia is happiest in average, well drained soil with a position in full sun. It loves heat and will absolutely flourish in locations that are too hot for other plants. It tends to drink a lot of water but is also fairly drought resistant, and it is untroubled by pests or diseases, including deer.

Tithonia is rarely grown because it is very resentful of transplanting and cold temperatures, and few people are aware that it exists. While the species itself is quite variable, there are some really excellent cultivars that can make outstanding additions to a prairie border.

‘Torch’ is by far the best and it received the coveted AAS award in 1951. Growing about 4 ft. tall and 2 ft. wide, it makes an excellent seasonal “hedge” and begins flowering in early to mid August. The sizzling orange flowers are sensational and borne in great profusion, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds. They also make excellent cutflowers and will bloom until bitten by frost.

‘Fiesta Del Sol’ won the AAS award in 2000, and it has reddish orange flowers on very compact plants that do not exceed 24”. It tends to be less vigorous than ‘Torch’ , especially if you prefer Tithonia large as opposed to small and compact. ‘Goldfinger’ has pumpkin colored flowers but is neither compact nor a particularly profuse bloomer. There is also a yellow flowered form of ‘Torch’ but the orange performs best.

Tithonia is easy from seed and great for making a statement in the garden with its warm, bright color at just the time the garden needs some spice! Combine with ‘Purple Majesty’ millet for a particularly outstanding pairing and as long as you are very cautious transplanting, Tithonia is an easy and undemanding plant. It deserves to be more widely known and appreciated.