Contents
Description
Tithonia, also known as the Mexican Sunflower, is a flowering plant native to Mexico and Central America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is known for its diverse and colorful flowers. Tithonia is a hardy plant that can grow up to six feet tall, with large, bright orange or yellow blooms that resemble sunflowers. It is an annual plant that blooms from mid-summer to fall and is easy to grow in gardens or containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tithonia |
Appearance
Tithonia has large, coarse leaves that are slightly hairy and serrated. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and has a bushy, upright habit. The flowers are large, bright orange or yellow, with a dark center disk. They bloom from mid-summer to fall and attract butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Tithonia is a fast-growing plant that can quickly fill in a garden space with its vibrant blooms and lush foliage.
Care Guide
Tithonia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Mexican Sunflowers:Water: Tithonia prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Tithonia does not require frequent fertilization but will benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring.Soil: Tithonia prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Sunlight: Tithonia thrives in full sun and will not bloom well in shade.Hardiness Zones: Tithonia is hardy in zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tithonia is a relatively pest and disease-free plant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, water at the base of the plant and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Tithonia is native to Mexico and Central America but can now be found all over the world. It grows well in warm, sunny climates and is often used in gardens, borders, and containers. Tithonia can also be grown as a cut flower and is popular in floral arrangements.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Tithonia plant?
A: Water deeply once a week, or more often in hot, dry weather.Q: Can Tithonia grow in shade?
A: Tithonia thrives in full sun and will not bloom well in shade.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tithonia?
A: Tithonia is hardy in zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual in colder climates.Q: What pests and diseases are commonly found on Tithonia?
A: Tithonia is relatively pest and disease-free but can be susceptible to powdery mildew, aphids, and spider mites.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Tithonia:- Helianthus annuus (Sunflower)- Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan)- Coreopsis grandiflora (Tickseed)- Gaillardia pulchella (Indian Blanket)- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower)
References
– “Tithonia diversifolia.” Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Wikimedia Foundation, Inc. 30 January 2021. Web. 1 February 2021.- “Tithonia rotundifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Web. 1 February 2021.- “Mexican Sunflower.” National Gardening Association. Web. 1 February 2021.
