Mexican Sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia)

FamilyAsteraceae
Scientific nameTithonia diversifolia
Common name (English)Mexican Sunflower
Common name (Malay)Bunga Bulan
Identified asIntroduced plant on Project M.A.R.S.’s land

Tithonia diversifolia, commonly known as Mexican sunflower, is a fast-growing perennial shrub in the Asteraceae family. Native to Mexico and Central America, it has been widely introduced to tropical and subtropical regions for use in soil improvement, erosion control, and as a green manure. The plant’s bright orange flowers also attract pollinators and support biodiversity. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. With its ecological benefits and medicinal potential, Tithonia diversifolia is valued both agriculturally and culturally in many regions.