Mexican Sunflower Seeds Tithonia rotundifolia – Heirloom Non-GMO Blooms for Pollinator Gardens

Description Mexican Sunflower Tithonia rotundifolia – Bold, flame-colored blooms on towering, pollinator-friendly plants A fast-growing annual that commands attention with large, velvety, orange-red daisy flowers. Reaching impressive heights, it creates a dramatic backdrop for borders and makes an outstanding cut flower. Loved by bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, it thrives in heat and full sun. Common Name: Mexican Sunflower, Tithonia Latin Name: Tithonia rotundifolia Plant Height: 4–6 ft (120–180 cm) Seeds per Gram: ≈ 150 seeds/gram Life Cycle: Annual (fast-growing, blooms first year) Available Color: Mixed: Orange, Red-Orange, Golden Yellow Non-GMO · Open-pollinated · Heirloom type · Exceptional for pollinators & cut flowers Botanical & Variety Details Common name(s)Mexican Sunflower, Tithonia, Red Sunflower, Mexican Torch Latin nameTithonia rotundifolia (formerly Tithonia speciosa) – classic tall border selection Mature height120–180 cm (4–6 ft) — sturdy, branching stems ideal for back of borders Seeds per gram~150 seeds/gram (approx. 4,250 seeds/oz) Growth cycleAnnual — grows rapidly, blooms from midsummer until frost Ornamental periodMidsummer to first frost (continuous blooms if deadheaded) Unique trait Velvety, flame-colored petals · Magnet for bees, butterflies & hummingbirds · Drought tolerant �� Planting & Growing Guide �� Best planting seasonSpring, after all danger of frost, when soil has warmed (zones 3–11 as an annual) ��️ Ideal temperature70–75°F (21–24°C) for germination; grows best in 65–85°F (18–29°C) ☀️ Shade requirementFull sun is essential (minimum 6–8 hours of direct sun). Tolerates no shade — weak stems and few blooms if light is limited. �� Sowing rate (per m²)0.5–1 gram per square meter (approx. 75–150 seeds/m²) for a bold, clustered display. �� Sowing depth1/4 inch (6 mm) — cover lightly with soil or vermiculite; keep evenly moist for optimal germination. �� Water & careModerate water until established; drought tolerant thereafter. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues. �� Spacing after thinningThin or transplant to 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow sturdy branching and airflow. �� Days to bloomApprox. 75–90 days from sowing (first flowers appear mid to late summer). Sun requirement: Full sun produces the strongest stems, largest flowers, and richest orange-red tones. In any shade, plants stretch, flop, and bloom sparsely. Provide plenty of direct sunlight throughout the day. Pro density tip: For cutting gardens, sow 1 g/m² and thin to 18″ apart. For a naturalistic meadow or mass border, sow 0.5 g/m². Succession sow every 2–3 weeks for a continuous flame of color until frost. Sowing quick guide: Spring · Full sun · 0.5–1 g/m² · Cover ¼″ deep Germination 70–75°F | Full sun essential for strong growth Harvest when flowers are fully open for vibrant, long-lasting bouquets. Remove spent blooms to extend flowering. Deer resistant · Heat loving · A magnificent choice for pollinator gardens and dramatic summer borders.