Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers in a red vase on a white background.
Mexican Sunflower Seeds, Red Torch
Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers in a red vase on a dark blue background.
Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers and pedals on a metal background.
Closeup of a single Mexican Red Torch Sunflower in the garden.
Single Mexican Red Torch Sunflower seen from the side in the garden.
Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers in a red vase on a white background.
Mexican Sunflower Seeds, Red Torch
Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers in a red vase on a dark blue background.
Mexican Red Torch Sunflowers and pedals on a metal background.
Closeup of a single Mexican Red Torch Sunflower in the garden.
Single Mexican Red Torch Sunflower seen from the side in the garden.

Mexican Sunflower Seeds,
Red Torch

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Description

(Tithonia rotundifolia). Known as the Golden Flower of the Aztecs, these brilliant, red-orange, 3-inch flowers are an excellent butterfly plant. These bloom over a very long season, and the plants produce masses of blooms. The large 5-foot plants are very beautiful. Jere enjoyed these as he traveled along the roadsides in the high mountains of central Mexico.

Growing Tips: The Mexican Red Torch sunflower grows best in full sunlight with rich soil and moderate soil moisture. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods, but avoid overwatering. Taller plants may need support in windy areas, and mulching around the base helps retain soil moisture and prevent weed growth.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Tithonia rotundifolia
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
75–90
Planting Depth
Lightly cover, as light is required for germination.
Plant Spacing
18–24 in.
Ideal Temperature
65–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

Plant after the last frost, typically in late spring, once soil temperatures reach at least 50 F. Alternatively, you can start indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost, and carefully transplant after the danger of frost has passed. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep and space them 6-12 inches apart. After seedlings emerge, thin them to about 18-24 inches apart to give each plant enough room to grow. Keep the soil moist during germination but not soggy.

How to Grow

This sunflower variety grows quickly and reaches up to 5 feet in height. It requires full sun exposure and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly to encourage healthy growth. As the plants can grow tall and bushy, they may need staking in windy regions to prevent toppling. These sunflowers are also excellent for attracting pollinators and blooming throughout the summer.

How to Save Seeds

  • When petals die back and heads begin to dry and turn brown, place a paper bag over the heads to protect seeds from birds.
  • After a few days, the heads will dry to a dark brown. Bring the heads indoors and hang them upside down in a dry area in direct sunlight for up to a week, shaking seeds free each day.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place.

FAQ

When do Mexican Red Torch sunflowers bloom?

They bloom throughout summer into early fall.

Do Mexican Red Torch sunflowers need staking?

Yes, in windy areas, staking may be necessary to support their height.

When should I plant Mexican Red Torch sunflowers?

Plant after the last frost in spring has passed, once the soil is above 50 F.

Browse our full range of sunflower seeds.

Customer reviews

4.6 / 5 98 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Monarch magnet: Fiery orange blooms draw monarchs, hummingbirds and bees daily.

  • Huge, shrubby plants: Grow 5 to 10 feet tall and bushy; give them space and a stake.

  • Blooms until frost: Flowers nonstop from midsummer through the first hard freeze.

  • Thrives in heat: Shrugs off heat and drought once established, with few pests.

  • Heads up: Slow to sprout and late to bloom; some seeds never came up.

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