Tithonia Goldfinger
Tithonia rotundifolia 'Goldfinger' — Mexican Sunflower; RHS AGM
Vivid deep orange-red velvety flowers with golden centres — the RHS AGM Mexican Sunflower that creates hedge-like architectural presence and brings Red Admirals, Peacocks and Painted Ladies in numbers.
About this variety
Deep orange-red flowers with a suede texture and a bright gold eye, on a compact plant at 60 to 90cm. The stems are hollow and covered in a soft downy fuzz; it is one of the most tactile things in the garden. It holds an RHS Award of Garden Merit.
If you want butterflies, this is close to the best plant you can grow. Red Admirals, Peacocks and Painted Ladies come to it in numbers through August and September, and they feed on it continuously rather than passing through.
It builds fast, making a substantial hedge-like mass of foliage topped with dozens of flowers in a single season, which is exactly what a border needs in August when the early summer plants are going over. It is half-hardy and wants real heat, so do not put it out until the frosts are finished and the soil has warmed.
For cutting, be aware the stems are hollow and will collapse if they are not conditioned. Cut in early morning, fill the stem with water and stand it deep for several hours before arranging.
Plant alongside
Tithonia Goldfinger pairs beautifully with these cottage garden classics
RHS Award of Garden Merit
The RHS Award of Garden Merit is given to plants of outstanding excellence for ordinary garden use. To earn this award a plant must be of good constitution, available to the gardening public, and perform reliably across a range of UK growing conditions. It is one of the most trusted plant recommendations in British gardening and a genuine mark of quality.
Learn more at RHS.org.uk →