Tithonia diversifolia / Mirasolia diversifolia – Tree Marigold, Mexican Tournesol, Mexican Sunflower, Japanese Sunflower, Nitobe Chrysanthemum, Bolivian Sunflower, Mexican Sunflower, Shrub-sunflower

Description

Tithonia diversifolia, commonly known as the Mexican Sunflower, is a fast-growing perennial shrub in the daisy family (Asteraceae). Native to Mexico and Central America, it thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, often reaching 2 to 3 meters in height. Its large, bright green leaves are deeply lobed and rough in texture, while its striking yellow-orange, daisy-like flowers bloom profusely, attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Highly adaptable, Tithonia diversifolia grows well in poor soils, along roadsides, or in gardens, making it a popular choice for erosion control, hedges, and as an ornamental plant. It is also valued as a “green manure” or compost plant because its foliage is rich in nutrients, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, which improve soil fertility.