Annuals & Biennials

Salpiglossis
painted tongue, velvet flower

- Height 1-3 ft (30-90 cm)
- Planting distance 1 ft (30 cm)
- Flowers early summer to midsummer, or into early fall in cooler regions
- Rich soil
- Open, sunny site
- Half-hardy annual

The velvety funnel-shaped blooms of this Chilean half-hardy annual create a dramatic effect in a mixed border with their kaleidoscope of purples, reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows. The flowers, many of which are veined in deeper or contrasting colors, are produced from early summer to midsummer and into fall where summers are cool. Salpiglossis sinuata is the species usually grown, and its hybrid cultivars make good pot plants in the greenhouse and on the patio; they add a wealth of color to summer borders and last well in water.

Popular species and cultivars
Several seed types are available.
'Bolero Hybrids' are vigorous cultivars that bear a mixture of richly colored flowers.
'Casino Hybrids' have strongly veined flowers in shades of red, rose, yellow, orange, and purple; they are good for bedding.
'Kew Blue,' a dwarf cultivar that grows only 1 ft (30 cm) high, bears gold-veined blue flowers.
'Splash Hybrids' are a bushy strain with a profusion of brightly colored flowers. They will grow in poor soil.

Annuals
and
Biennials