Torch Tithonia
Certified Organic
Tithonia rotundifolia
Effusive and crowd-pleasing red-orange blooms
A native of Mexico, Torch Tithonia grows at a slow burn until midsummer heat triggers an explosion of blooms that blaze into fall. The vibrant red-orange flowers attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. A relative of zinnias and sunflowers, this striking plant resembles both. At heights of up to 6 feet, you will understand why it is commonly called "Mexican Sunflower," but once it blooms, you will see the close relation to zinnias.
Grow this tall, showy annual in back of borders or in a mass planting for the most fiery effect.
from $3.49
| Unit | Price | Quantity | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art Pack / Organic / 100 seeds | $4.79 | In Stock | |
| 100 Seeds / Organic | $3.49 | In Stock |
Price as selected:
Start seeds indoors in a warm spot, about 75-80 degrees, 4-6 weeks before last frost date. Seedlings are slower to start than zinnias or sunflowers, so have a bit of patience if you have not planted them before. They take off quickly once they get going! Transplant out after threat of frost has passed. Torch Tithonia prefers full sun and well-drained soil, but tolerates partial shade. This large plant resembles sunflower and zinnia plants some-what, but you will find that the leaves are quite interesting and have a slightly fuzzy texture. Reached heights up to 6 feet and is covered in fiery-orange zinnia-like blossoms by mid-summer.
| Days to Germination | 5 to 14 days |
|---|---|
| Days to Maturity | 75 days |
| Planting Depth | ½ inch |
| Height at Maturity | 72 inches |
| Width at Maturity | 36 inches |
| Sun Preference | Full to Partial Sun |
Artist Mary O'Malley's intricate gouache paintings combine her fascination with nature and love of pattern to create an alternate "natural" world. Her Tithonia garden features symmetry, bold color, and shimmering gold ink metallic detail.