Native to Mexico and Central America, the Mexican Sunflower has been a part of Mesoamerican landscapes for centuries.

• Aztec Roots: Historically, many Tithonia species were valued by indigenous cultures in Mexico not just for their beauty, but for their vigorous growth and soil-building properties.
• The Mythic Name: The genus name Tithonia is derived from Tithonus, a figure in Greek mythology who was loved by Aurora, the Goddess of the Dawn. It is a fitting name for a flower that looks like a captured piece of a brilliant sunrise.
• 20th Century Boom: It gained widespread popularity in the United States in the early 1900s as a "warm-weather wonder," prized for its ability to thrive in the sweltering heat of the South and Midwest where other flowers would wilt.

If you want to see butterflies, this is the #1 plant to grow. Often called "The Monarch's Fuel Station," the Mexican Sunflower is legendary among pollinator enthusiasts.

• Monarch Migration: Because it blooms heavily in late summer and autumn, it provides vital, high-energy nectar for Monarch butterflies during their long southern migration.
• Constant Activity: The flowers are flat and wide, providing the perfect "landing pad" for larger butterflies like Swallowtails and Fritillaries.
• Bee Haven: You will frequently see native bees and honeybees covered in its bright yellow pollen.
• Hummingbird Favorite: The tubular center of the flower is rich in nectar, making it a frequent stop for hummingbirds looking for a sugary boost.

• Velvety Texture: The stems and leaves are covered in a soft, silver-green down that is wonderful to touch.
• Drought Defiant: Once established, Tithonia is incredibly heat-tolerant and requires very little water.
• Massive Presence: It grows quickly into a lush, hedge-like bush, perfect for covering unsightly fences or creating a "living wall."
• Cut Flower Champion: The stems are hollow but sturdy. When cut and placed in a vase, they bring a glow to any room.

Pro Tip: Do not over-fertilize! If you give Mexican Sunflowers too much nitrogen, you will get a giant green bush with very few flowers. They actually prefer "poor" soil.

1. Sowing: Direct sow after the last frost. They love warm soil and will germinate quickly once the weather stays consistently above 60°F. 1/2" deep every 6-10" and thin 12"
2. Deadheading: Remove spent blooms regularly to encourage the plant to keep producing new flower buds until the first frost.
3. Wind Protection: Because they grow so tall and have hollow stems, plant them in a spot protected from high winds or use light staking to keep them upright.
4. Spacing: Give them room! Space plants 2–3 feet apart to allow for their wide, branching habit.

Transform your garden into a shimmering sanctuary for butterflies. Order your Mexican Sunflower seeds today! 🦋🛒