Organic sunflower 'Mexican Sunflower'
Organic 'Mexican Sunflower' sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) from Gaia seed company, a fiery and imposing bloom for a vibrant garden
The Mexican sunflower 'Mexican Sunflower' is a spectacular heirloom variety, forming large, highly branched plants that can reach 1.5 to 1.8 m (5 to 6 ft) in height. Its deep orange, 9 cm (3.5") wide flowers provide a dazzling display from midsummer until the first frosts. This warm-hearted plant attracts an abundance of pollinators – butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds – and creates a vibrant display in any garden. Very vigorous, it produces strong stems and numerous flowers, making it perfect for sunny borders or the back of flower beds.
The Mexican sunflower also has the particularity of greatly increasing the growth of its own stems, but slowing down that of plants within 30 cm (12") around it: it is therefore better to offer it space to fully enjoy its ornamental power.
Companion plants : Dwarf beans, squash, cucumber, corn, lettuce, all plants susceptible to aphids
Enemy plants : Potato
Spread/Habit : Very branched, bushy
Plant height : 90 to 180 cm (36 to 72")
Special features : Edible flowers, edible leaves, strongly attracts pollinators
Quantity per pack : To be specified according to the packaging (not indicated in your source sheet)
Certification : Environmentally friendly product
Farming method
Soaking the seeds in warm water for up to 12 hours is recommended to improve germination. Sow directly outdoors in late May, at a depth of 1.2 cm (1/2"). Space the plants 30 to 60 cm (12 to 24") apart and leave at least 30 cm around each plant to prevent it from crowding out neighboring plants. Choose a location in full sun (level 3) and water regularly (watering level 3), especially at first.
Germination occurs in 10 to 14 days at an optimal temperature of 23°C, but can also occur within a range of 12 to 18°C. Maturity is reached in 80 to 90 days, with abundant and sustained flowering.
Harvesting and preservation
Harvest the seeds when the flower heads are completely dry on their stems. To prevent birds or squirrels from eating them, place a brown paper bag around the head as the seeds begin to ripen. The flowers can also be harvested for fresh arrangements, while the petals and young leaves are edible.
Usage ideas
• Perfect for creating a spectacular backdrop in flowerbeds
• Very effective at attracting butterflies, bees and hummingbirds
• Ideal for ecological or naturalistic gardens
• Edible flowers to decorate desserts, cocktails or salads
• Ideal for creating vibrant bouquets
• To be grown as a refuge plant against aphids (trap plant)
The 'Mexican Sunflower' sunflower is a magnificent, vibrant, and resilient plant, perfect for adding a tropical and lively touch to the garden. A must-have variety for gardeners who love spectacular blooms and vibrant gardens.
