Tithonia Torch Mexican Sunflower Seeds, Fiery Orange Blooms

Tithonia Torch Mexican sunflower seeds grow tall, branching annual plants covered in fiery red-orange blooms that draw butterflies and bring late-summer color to the garden. Commonly called Mexican sunflower, this plant is Tithonia rotundifolia, not a true sunflower in the Helianthus genus.

Torch reaches about 4 to 6 feet tall in full sun. It handles Kansas heat and dry stretches well once established and works beautifully at the back of a flower bed, along a garden edge, or as a loose summer screen.

Direct sow after frost when the soil has warmed to about 70°F. Barely cover the seed because light helps germination. Space plants 12 to 24 inches apart. Germination typically takes 10 to 14 days in warm soil. Avoid heavy nitrogen, which can make tall plants with fewer flowers.

This lot is labeled at 85% germination and was tested in September 2026. Choose 50 or 100 seeds per pack.

For Kansas planting timing and soil preparation, read our sunflower growing guide. Tithonia prefers warmer soil than true sunflowers, so wait until the ground is thoroughly warm before sowing.