Flowers
Tithonia 'Torch'
Mexican Sunflower
The Mexican sunflower is an easy-to-grow butterfly magnet. Perfect for filling a gap at the back of the border. The flowers are lovely for cutting, just be careful not to damage the hollow stems when picking. Also suitable for growing in containers, but may require support.
- Plant type
- Half-Hardy Annual
- Position
- Full sun
- Height
- 1.2m
- Spread
- 40cm
Growing calendar
Sowing & growing
Sow under glass from March-April in moist seed compost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil but do not exclude light as it is required for germination. Place at 13-18°C. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant into individual pots. Acclimatise the plants before planting out 50cm apart once all risk of frost has passed.
Aftercare
Pinch out the growing tip to encourage bushy growth and continue to deadhead to prolong the flowering. May need protection from slugs and snails, as well as staking.
Gallery
Ref. SET011