Fiesta del Sol Mexican Sunflower

Fiesta del Sol Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta del Sol')

Fiesta del Sol Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta del Sol') is a compact, floriferous annual known for its bold orange blooms and unmatched appeal to pollinators. A dwarf selection of the classic Mexican sunflower, this cultivar delivers intense summer color and thrives in heat and drought, making it a standout in sunny borders, pollinator gardens, and containers.

Distinctive Features

'Fiesta del Sol' produces vivid, tangerine-orange, daisy-like flowers with golden centers, held above sturdy stems and coarse, dark green foliage. Its compact size - much smaller than traditional Tithonia - makes it ideal for urban gardens and small spaces. The blooms are especially attractive to butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds, and they continue nonstop from midsummer until frost.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun
• Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; tolerates poor soil
• Water: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• USDA Hardiness Zones: Grown as an annual in all zones

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bright blooms and bushy habit draw attention in beds or pots
• Pollinator Gardens: Nectar-rich flowers attract butterflies and hummingbirds
• Cut Flower Gardens: Long stems and vivid blooms make excellent cut flowers
• Container Gardening: Compact form works well in large patio pots
• Wildlife Gardens: Supports native pollinators and adds habitat value

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water during prolonged dry spells; otherwise needs little supplemental irrigation
• Pruning: Deadhead to encourage continuous bloom; no formal pruning needed
• Fertilizing: Minimal feeding required; over-fertilization can reduce flowering
• Staking: Not necessary due to naturally compact, sturdy growth
• Pest Management: Rarely bothered by pests or diseases

Why Choose Fiesta del Sol Mexican Sunflower?

• Compact Habit: Perfect for small gardens or container displays
• Nonstop Blooms: Long flowering season from midsummer to frost
• Pollinator Magnet: Attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds
• Heat and Drought Tolerant: Thrives in tough summer conditions
• Focal Point: Vivid orange blooms create a bold visual impact in garden beds or pots

Tithonia rotundifolia 'Fiesta del Sol' combines intense color, pollinator appeal, and a tidy, manageable size - an ideal choice for bold summer displays and habitat-friendly gardens.