Tithonia diversifolia, also known as Mexican sunflower or tree marigold, is a fast-growing perennial plant in the Asteraceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America, it has been introduced and naturalized in many tropical regions globally.
The plant can reach up to 3 meters in height, featuring large, deeply lobed, and toothed leaves. Its bright orange or yellow flowers, measuring 5-10 cm in diameter, bloom from mid-summer through fall.
Tithonia diversifolia is renowned for its medicinal properties, containing various bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes. Traditionally, it has been used to treat ailments like fever, coughs, and wounds, among others.
The Mexican sunflower, which has become an invasive weed in parts of Africa and Asia, has the potential to enhance crop yields and improve soil quality. This is possible by using its biomass as a fertilizer, known as green manure. This green manure increases the content of all the main soil nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. FUN FACT · FROM THE LIBRARY
Ecologically, the plant offers benefits like soil conservation due to its deep root system that helps prevent soil erosion. Additionally, it attracts pollinators like bees, aiding in the pollination of other plants.
Overall, Tithonia diversifolia is a significant plant species due to its medicinal properties and ecological benefits, making it an invaluable resource for many communities worldwide.
The Mexican sunflower gets its name because it originates from Mexico and is part of the sunflower botanical tribe, Heliantheae. If you examine the flower's head, you'll notice that it resembles a typical sunflower.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Life Cycle
- Perennial, Annual
- Genus
- Tithonia
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-12
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m to 3.05 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m to 3.66 m
- Leaf Color
- Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Orange, Gold
- Flower Size
- 5.08 cm to 15.24 cm
- Bloom Time
- Late spring, Summer, Early fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Mid summer, Late summer, Fall
- Native Area
- Honduras, Mexico, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama
Other names.
