Mexican Sunflower Tithonia

Blooms midsummer until first hard freeze, providing bright, 3–3 1/2" flowers well into fall. Most plants produce orange, with a small percentage producing red or yellow blooms. Vigorous and full plant habit. Performs well in hot, dry climates. Native to Central America and Mexico.

• Attracts Beneficial Insects: Nectar plant and habitat for bees and butterflies.

Days to Maturity: 85-90

DAYS TO GERMINATION:7-14 days at 70-85°F (21-29°C)

SOWING:Direct seed (recommended) - Cover seeds lightly. Sow once soil temperature is 70-85°F (21-29°C). Barely cover seeds as light is required for germination. Transplant - Sow 6 weeks before planting out. Tolerates poor soil. Light aids germination.

LIGHT PREFERENCE:Sun.

PLANT HEIGHT:60-72".

PLANT SPACING:12-24".

HARDINESS ZONES:Annual.

HARVEST:Flowers 90-100% open. Stand in deep, warm water for several hours. Deadhead for longer bloom.

SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Fertile loam or sandy soil with good drainage. Tolerates poor soil. Excess nitrogen results in tall plants with few flowers