Also known as Arbol Maravilla · Girasol Mexicana · Japanese-Sunflower
Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) is a fast-growing shrub with vibrant orange daisy-like flowers. It's known for its drought tolerance and adaptability, making it
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-30°C. Sensitive to frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring; avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Mexican sunflowers regularly, especially during dry spells. Allow the top 2-3 cm of soil to dry out between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as they are somewhat drought-tolerant once established but perform best with consistent moisture.
Prune Mexican sunflowers to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to prolong blooming.
Cut back significantly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or overgrown stems and promote vigorous new growth.
Mexican sunflowers are easily propagated from seeds sown in spring or from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. Cuttings root readily in moist soil or water.
Seeds can be sown directly outdoors after the last frost or started indoors a few weeks prior.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established Mexican sunflowers as they are often grown as annuals or can become quite large. If grown in containers, repot every 2-3 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix in spring if root-bound.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia)
Where Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tithonia |
| Species | Tithonia diversifolia |
Similar in genus Tithonia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
