Acahual (Tithonia tubaeformis, Dict. Sci. Nat., ed. 2. 35: 278 (1825))

Family: Asteraceae

Author: (Jacq.) Cass.

Bibliography: Dict. Sci. Nat., ed. 2. 35: 278 (1825)

Year: 1825

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Tithonia

Vegetable: False

Observations: Mexico to Honduras

Description

Acahual, scientifically known as Tithonia tubaeformis, is a notable member of the Asteraceae family, distinguished for its vibrant and picturesque presence in nature. Often admired for its striking flowers and robust growth, this plant has carved out a niche for itself across regions stretching from Mexico to Honduras.

The Acahual exhibits a unique charm with its bright yellow-orange blooms that, much like sunflowers—its relatives in the Asteraceae family—follow the sun throughout the day. These vivid flowers tend to attract a plethora of pollinators including bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a vital player in the ecological community by supporting pollination processes.

One of the defining characteristics of Tithonia tubaeformis is its resilience and adaptability. It thrives in a variety of soil types, although it shows a preference for well-drained, fertile grounds. This ability to adapt ensures that it can flourish across a wide range of altitudes and climates within its native regions.

Traditionally, Acahual has been more than just a feast for the eyes; it holds cultural significance and has been used in traditional practices by local communities. Some uses include natural fencing due to its sturdy stems and potential medicinal applications derived from various parts of the plant, although these uses are more anecdotal and should be explored with caution.

This botanical marvel was comprehensively documented as early as 1825, evident from its inclusion in the second edition of “Dictionary of Natural Sciences.” The botanist Henri Cassini formally attributed the plant’s scientific nomenclature, honoring its botanical uniqueness and ensuring it a place in the annals of natural history.

In gardens and wild habitats alike, Tithonia tubaeformis stands as a symbol of the vibrant flora found throughout Mexico and Central America. Its easy cultivation and striking aesthetic make it a favored plant not only in its native region but also in gardens around the world where similar climates prevail. With its ecological benefits and robust beauty, Acahual continues to be a revered plant, contributing significantly to the biodiversity of its native regions.

Common Names

En: Acahual
Es: Pasto Cubano, Yuyo Cubano

Synonyms

• Tithonia helianthoides (Weinm. ex Steud.)
• Tithonia tubaeformis var. bourgaeana (Pamp.)
• Urbanisol tubaeformis ((Jacq.) Kuntze)
• Helianthus tubaeformis (Jacq.)

Distribution

• Belize (native)
• El Salvador (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Honduras (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Bahamas (introduced)
• Bolivia (introduced)
• Costa Rica (introduced)
• Dominican Republic (introduced)
• Swaziland (introduced)
• Zambia (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Nov 11, 2022 by Zenón Rizo Fernández (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2022 by Alejandro C. P. (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 11, 2022 by Zenón Rizo Fernández (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 27, 2021 by Karla Aguilar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 1, 2022 by Rascón Carlos (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Nov 11, 2022 by Zenón Rizo Fernández (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 17, 2021 by luis hernandez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 17, 2021 by luis hernandez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 4, 2021 by luis hernandez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 4, 2021 by luis hernandez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 8, 2022 by Hernández Olincar (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5396560)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:255775-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Tithonia tubaeformis (Jacq.) Cass.)

Specifications

Growth