Description

• Tithonia rotundifolia, commonly known as red sunflower, Mexican sunflower or red tithonia, is an annual herb in the daisy family (Asteraceae). It typically grows 1–2 m tall, with upright, branching stems that are often covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are alternate, broadly ovate to heart-shaped, and may have toothed or shallowly lobed margins. The large, daisy-like flower heads have vivid orange-red to scarlet ray florets surrounding a yellow to orange central disc. Flowering attracts butterflies, bees and other insect pollinators. The fruits are small, dark achenes. The species is cultivated as an ornamental and can occasionally escape cultivation in warm regions.

Range

• Tithonia rotundifolia is native to Mexico and Central America. It is cultivated widely in tropical and subtropical regions as an ornamental plant and may become naturalised in suitable environments. In Mexico, it occurs in warm regions, including parts of Guerrero, where it may be found in gardens, along roadsides and in disturbed areas.

Habitat

• This species grows in sunny, open environments, including grasslands, roadsides, field margins, scrublands and disturbed ground. It favours warm conditions, full sun and well-drained soils, and grows rapidly during the rainy season. Around Zihuatanejo, it may occur in open clearings, agricultural margins, roadsides and other disturbed habitats where seasonal rainfall provides sufficient moisture for growth and flowering.