Tithonia Wild sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia) also known as the Mexican Sunflower
Tithonia rotundifolia
Research scientists say the tithonia plant contains 80 percent more phosphorus than legumes. They say it contains enough nitrogen and potassium to promote crop growth, and they are asking stakeholders in the agricultural sector to help promote the use of tithonia as an alternative to chemical fertilizers. Besides being used as a substitute for fertilizer, the tithonia plant is also used as firewood or as animal feed.
Researchers in the region say the ability of tithonia to decompose quickly makes it the best way to replenish soil fertility. According to a recent research by Kenya Agricultural Research Institute the concentration of nutrients in tithonia is highest in young plants and just before the plant flowers.