Have you heard of the Mexican sunflower (Tithonia speciosa)? Perhaps you know the species by another name, such as titonia, daisy, Amazon flower or hand of god. Or, who knows, you may have only seen the typical orange color.
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Believe it or not, there is a toxic (but beautiful) flower planted in your garden
During his travels around Foz do Iguaçu, environmentalist Francisco Amarilla identified, from afar, specimens of the plant in Vila A. The Mexican sunflower is planted in a community use area, cared for by nearby neighbors.
Originally from Mexico, the flower has spread throughout the continent's gardens thanks to its great beauty and ability to attract birds and butterflies.
“Hummingbirds and butterflies really like it. A tiny sunflower looks like a giant daisy. I just don’t like the smell very much,” confesses Amarilla.
According to a sites specialized in growing flowers, Tithonia speciosa It is easy to handle. Envelopes with seeds are available in physical and electronic stores, with prices starting at R$3.
In regions such as Foz do Iguaçu, however, times such as winter require special attention. This is because, according to specialist guides, the Mexican sunflower is highly sensitive to phenomena such as frost.
Sunflower bushes can reach three meters in height, withstanding dry periods, but losing strength when the soil is too wet.
performed by H2FOZ, the É da Vida program has the support of partners such as Bird Park. In June, two more supporters joined the team: the agency Let's Go Travel Iguassu and the experience Iguassu By Bike.
Production: H2FOZ. Presentation: Francisco Amarilla. Images and editing: Marcos Labanca. Distribution on digital platforms: Claudio Siqueira.
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