Name Mexican Sunflower; Clavel de Muerta; Tree Marigold

Botanical Name Tithonia rotundifolia

Family Asteraceae

Native to Native to Central America

Water Water until established - then drought tolerant

Sun Full sun

Soil Fertile loam or sandy soil with good drainage

Height 60 - 72"

Width 12-24"

Space 12-24"

Price

6" pots: $3.50

1 gallon root pouch: 5.00

Description

Mexican sunflowers have bright orange (sometimes yellow or red), daisy-like flowers that grow on tall, branching stems with multiple flowers per plant. The leaves are medium green and coarse. They begin blooming mid-summer and don't quit until late fall. They love hot, dry climates and average soil. They attract butterflies (Monarchs love them), bees, hummingbirds, and other beneficial pollinators.

Will Tolerate &

Keeping in Going

Drought tolerant once established
Loves hot weather
Grows best in sandy or rocky soil
Likes average to poor soil (too much nitrogen will produce greener leaves and less blooms)

Won't Tolerate

Cold weather (below 60 F) may slow growth
Poorly drained soil
Shady areas will produce leggy plants with weak stems
Nitrogen rich fertilizer will produce green leaves and less blooms
Continuous strong winds in an open area

Points of Interest

The common name, "Clavel de Muerto" means "carnation of the dead".
They are found growing wild in Mexico in sandy or rocky soil
Because they attract pollinators, butterflies and hummingbirds, it is beneficial to plant them next to a vegetable garden
Mass plantings help support these tall plants. Planting them next to vertical structures (garden sheds, fences, or structural walls) is also beneficial.
They are make nice additions to a cut flower garden.
Occasionally snails or slugs will bother them, but they are relatively pest free.

Mexican Sunflower