The Mexican sunflower is a vigorous, drought tolerant, warm season annual. It is native to Mexico and Central America.
The bushy herb can reach a height of 1.5 to 3 m. The leaves are deep green, heart-shaped to lobed and covered with soft hair. The large, brightly orange-colored, daisy-like flowers are produced from mid-summer until frost. They are used by many insects as a source of nectar.