Tithonia Red Torch Seeds — How to Grow Mexican Sunflowers
Tithonia Red Torch Seeds — How to Grow Mexican Sunflowers
Bold, fiery annual
Tithonia ‘Red Torch’ is a bold, fiery annual loved for its tall stems, bright orange-red blooms, and incredible pollinator appeal. Perfect for UK gardens needing height, colour, and long-lasting summer display. Easy to grow from seed, brilliant for cut flowers, and a favourite of butterflies.
What Is Tithonia Red Torch?
Tithonia rotundifolia ‘Red Torch’ is commonly known as the Mexican sunflower.
Key traits:
• Bright orange-red daisy-like blooms
• Reaches 1.2–1.8m tall in UK summers
• Heat-loving, loves full sun
• Excellent for cut flowers
• Attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies
• Blooms July–October
How to Grow Tithonia Red Torch from Seed
Sowing Tithonia Seeds
• Start seeds indoors in April–May
• Sow into modules and lightly cover
• Keep warm (18–21°C) until germination
• Harden off before planting out
• Plant 40–50cm apart in full sun
Growing On
• Needs a warm, sunny position
• Tall stems may need staking in windy gardens
• Avoid overwatering — prefers dryish soil
• Pinch out early tips for bushier plants (optional)
Aftercare
• Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous blooms
• Feed lightly every 2–3 weeks in summer
• Water deeply in prolonged dry spells
• Protect young plants from slugs when planting out
FAQ — Tithonia Red Torch
Usually 1.2–1.8m depending on summer warmth.
Sometimes — stake if your garden is exposed or windy.
Yes, it’s one of the best annuals for butterflies and bees.
From mid-summer until the first frosts.
