Mexican Sunflower
Tithonia rotundifolia. Annual. 4'.
Mexican Sunflower, vibrant burnt-orange single flowers are borne on long arching stems. Use the flower heads as cut flowers. Plant in full sun, drought tolerant. Attracts Monarch butterflies. Similar to sunflowers.
Planting Directions: Sow seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost in moist sterile seed starting mix. Seeds need light to germinate, just press lightly into the soil surface. Germination takes 5-14 days and soil temperature of 70°. Seed may be direct sown after the last frost when daily high temperatures are 70 degrees in ordinary, light garden soil. Keep moist while germinating. Transplant when soil has warmed and all danger of frost is past. Space or thin plants 24” apart. Plants are drought tolerant but should have regular watering until well established. If possible, avoid overhead irrigation.