With many of my doctor’s appointments behind me, I’m finally getting out into the backyard. Wow. Wow. Wow. What a disaster!
I can’t do much at one time because the heat indices are close to 100°F and even above. My plan is to go out for 15 to 30 minutes every day. Slowly but surely, I’ll get this garden back in shape.
Today, I planted Red Torch Mexican Sunflower seeds. They like the heat! Thank goodness, because I can give it to them.
This is my first time growing this plant. I’ve heard it’s easy to grow from seeds and easy to grow in general. Fingers crossed!
Red Torch Mexican Sunflower
This is what I know about the Red Torch Mexican Sunflower:
Vital Statistics:
- Botanical Name: Tithonia rotundfolia ‘Torch’
- Type: Annual (tender perennial in Zones 9–11)
- Height: 4–6 feet
- Spread: 2–4 feet
- Bloom Time: Summer to first frost
- Flower Color: Bright red-orange with yellow centers
- Light Requirements: Full sun
- Soil: Well-drained, average soil (tolerates poor soil)
- Water Needs: Low to moderate (drought-tolerant once established)
- Pollinator Friendly: Yes! Butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds love it.
- Native To: Mexico and Central America
- USDA Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual elsewhere)
I chose this flower because it adds drama to the garden and thrives in the Florida summer heat. It doesn’t mind poor soil. Plus, it’s a favorite with butterflies and hummingbirds, so I hope to see some visitors when it blooms.
How I Planted
Here’s how I planted mine: I had an EarthBox ready to go. I loosened the soil, and scattered the seeds directly. I lightly pressed them into the soil and gave them a gentle watering. Now, I wait. Germination usually takes 7 to 14 days if the soil stays warm and moist.
Fun Facts About Red Torch Mexican Sunflower
- Monarch butterflies love it — it’s a great nectar source during their migration.
- The blooms are long-lasting when cut for arrangements, making it a cheerful addition indoors.
- The plant can self-seed if you let the flowers dry on the stalk, so you might get a surprise crop next year!
- The Aztecs are believed to have admired the wild Tithonia blooms for their bold color and sun-like shape, using them in rituals and possibly as symbols of the sun god.
Looking Ahead
I’m excited to see how this bold, heat-loving plant does in my garden. With its fiery blooms and tall, branching form, it promises to put on a show—if all goes well. I’ll keep you updated on how the Red Torch Mexican Sunflower grows, blooms, and (fingers crossed) thrives in the weeks ahead.
This is just the beginning. I’ll be sharing more of what I’m planting over the next few weeks. For now, I’m thrilled to be outside again, dirt on my hands and hope in my heart.
Stay tuned for more garden updates from the land of heat, weeds, and perseverance!