Tithonia
diversifolia Mexican
Sunflower
Tithonia
diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray is an impressive
member of the sunflower family, Asteraceae. Tithonia
was named for Tithonus,
a legendary Trojan loved by the dawn goddess Eos, who
turned him into a grasshopper. Tithonia
diversifolia is a perennial native of Mexico and
Central America and is cultivated for its beautiful
flowers and
enormous size. The plant's flowers are a favorite of
bees and African farmers have many uses for the plant,
the most popular use being as an organic fertilizer for
vegetable crops in either compost or a tea form.
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Mexican
Sunflower, Click to Enlarge Image |
Mexican
Sunflower Flowers, Click to Enlarge Image |
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Mexican
Sunflower Leaves,
Click to Enlarge Image |
Mexican
Sunflower Seedhead,
Click to Enlarge Image |
Plant
Facts:
Common Name:
Mexican
Sunflower
Botanical Name:
Tithonia
diversifolia
Family:
Asteraceae
Plant Type:
Large, perennial, rangy shrub
Origin: Mexico
and Central America
Zones:
8 - 11
Height:
Height and width to 12'
or more
Rate of Growth: Fast
Salt Tolerance: Medium
Soil Requirements:
Average,
well-drained soil
Water Requirements: Requires
regular watering in dry weather
Nutritional Requirements: Balanced
liquid fertilizer monthly
Light Requirements: Full
sun for best growth and flowering
Form:
Shrub
Leaves:
Palm shaped, medium green to 6" wide
Flowers:
Yellow, daisy-like, smell of honey -- loved
by bees and butterflies
Fruits:
Gray, flattened, dry, one-seeded fruit
hidden by papery, brown-tipped bracts
Pests or diseases:
Young foliage attacked by snails and slugs
Uses:
Screening, specimen
plant
Bad Habits:
Foliage damaged by frost, but recovers
rapidly
Cost: $$ --
Very reasonable
Propagation:
Sow seeds in place
Source:
 A-Z
Encyclopedia of Garden Plants,  Flora:
A Gardener's Encyclopedia
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