Mexican Sunflower (1/4 lb)

Mexican Sunflower, Torch (Tithonia rotundifolia) is an open-pollinated annual and a large, spectacular member of the aster family, with striking orange blooms on velvety green stems. It thrives in summer heat, reaches up to 5 feet, and is a magnet for butterflies. This 1/4 lb size covers approximately 1,000 sq ft if broadcast.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Tithonia rotundifolia
• Type: Open-pollinated annual
• Days to germinate: 7 to 14 days
• Sun: Full sun
• Planting depth: 1/4 inch
• Height at maturity: 3 to 5 feet
• USDA zones: 3 to 10
• Seeding rate: 1/4 lb per 1,000 sq ft (about 11,340 seeds per pack)

Best for

• Butterfly and pollinator gardens
• Cut flowers and bold border color
• Hot, sunny summer beds
• Backgrounds and tall accents
• Attracting bees and beneficial insects

How to grow

Plant after the last frost, scatter-sowing on the surface about 1 foot apart at a depth of 1/4 inch in full sun. Seeds germinate in 7 to 14 days. When plants reach about 3 inches tall, thin to 24 inches apart. Mature plants reach 3 to 5 feet, adapt to many soil types with moderate water, and bloom from summer into fall. Native to Mexico.

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Grow Organic supplies seeds, plants, and garden supplies for organic and sustainable growing, helping home gardeners and small farms cultivate healthy, productive gardens.