Tithonia 'Torch' is a large, bushy annual with orange to scarlet flowers that are loved by bees and butterflies and are sometimes visited by hummingbirds. One customer said that he'd never seen so many butterflies on one plant.
Tithonia is fairly easy to grow, but the brittle stems tend to break in high winds, so give it a sheltered location. Tithonia 'Torch' was an All-America Selections winner in 1951. It's shown here with a Zebra Longwing butterfly. Also known as Mexican Sunflower.
height 5', width 3'
Sowing Tithonia Seeds:
Best sown indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. Or sow outdoors after the last frost, 1/4" deep. Space plants 24" apart. Full sun. Easy to grow.
