Mexican Tree Sunflower

Tithonia fruticosa

A large deciduous shrub with nectar rich flowers that attract a wide variety of pollinators.

Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Near native
Origin: Sonora in the Sierra Madre Occidental, in canyons, rocky slopes, often in forests (pine-oak, tropical deciduous forest, thornscrub)
Family: Asteraceae
Size: 10′ x 10′
Sun: Full to part (preferred)
Watering: Regular for best appearance
Growth Rate: Rapid
Soil: Tolerant
Temperature: Stems freeze in the low 20s F, Root hardy to 15 F
Pruning: Occasional pruning after blooming
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Nectar rich flowers, granivorous birds love the seeds, larval host plant for the Bordered Patch and Painted Lady butterflies.
Notes: May bloom in summer, especially if affected by frost in winter

Photo by jdpaullette

Resources

Add a Tag to Your Garden!

If you’re interested in purchasing engraved aluminum garden tags, you can now purchase them on Etsy!

Let us know if you’re interested in a tag that not yet listed and we’ll see about adding it. New entries have to provide a support role for pollinators or provide sufficient interest to warrant a dedicated web page.

Now making tags for Cactus & Succulent collectors!