The genus Tithonia in the daisy family (Asteraceae) includes 10-15 species of bushy annuals, perennials and shrubs native to Mexico and Central America that have large, brightly colored daisy-like flowers on thick stems. Mexican sunflower, T. diversifolia, is a vigorous, drought tolerant warm season annual that is easy to grow in the ornamental garden with other common names of red sunflower of just tithonia.
Tithonia plants grow 6-12+ feet tall, with a large central stalk. If you prune them they grow into denser “bushes” In HawaiÊ»i these plants grow excellent as attractive privacy barriers. They are also excellent for permaculture applications where chop and drop is preferred.
