Tithonia (also known as Mexican sunflower) variety ‘Fiesta del Sol’ is a lush and striking annual summer flower, bringing bright orange-red tones to the garden. The plant grows to about 75 cm in height, forming a strong and branching bush. It is a very heat- and light-loving crop, which opens its bright blooms fully on sunny days.
This variety is perfect for larger flower pots on the terrace as well as for the middle or back of a flower bed in open ground. In addition to its high decorative value in garden design, Tithonia’s strong and long stems are excellent material for making summer cut flower bouquets. The abundant flowering from mid-summer to autumn also makes this plant a valuable source of nectar, actively attracting butterflies and other beneficial pollinators to the garden. Since the plant is completely frost-tender in the Estonian climate, avoid moving it outdoors too early.
Usage and Cultivation Instructions:
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Sowing time (pre-cultivation): Sow seeds indoors in a seed tray in March or April.
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Sowing time (direct sowing): Direct sowing in open ground is only possible in June, once the soil has permanently warmed up.
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Sowing depth: Approximately 0.5–1 cm. Keep the sowing soil evenly moist, but not wet.
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Planting in open ground: Move pre-cultivated seedlings to their permanent outdoor location only after all danger of night frost has passed in Estonia (usually late May or early June).
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Location: Choose the sunniest and warmest spot in the garden. Prefers well-drained soil.
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Plant spacing: Leave about 30–40 cm between plants to ensure they receive enough light and air.
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Flowering period: From July until the first autumn night frosts.
Tips and recommendations:
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Regularly deadhead spent blooms – this keeps the plant looking tidy and encourages the formation of new flower buds, extending the flowering period until autumn.
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Although Tithonia tolerates heat well, it requires more regular watering when grown in pots than in beds. Ensure that there is proper drainage at the bottom of the pot to prevent root rot.
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Use Tithonia as a cut flower: cut the stems in the early morning and remove leaves that reach into the vase water; this way, the flowers will stay fresh longer.