How To Grow Salpiglossis Seeds
Updated on Dec 10, 2021
By Shannon McCabe
Latin name Salpiglossis sinuata, commonly known as painted tongue, is an annual member of the nightshade family. The large trumpet-shaped flowers are super vibrant, making it a beloved ornamental that is especially popular as a bedding plant.
HISTORY
Native to southern Chile. A popular ornamental related to nicotiana, it is considered an excellent cut flower.
USES
- Ornamental
- Beds, borders, containers, cottage garden
- Visited by a range of butterflies and some hummingbirds
- Seeds germinate in 14-21 days.
- Surface sow seeds but cover either with a layer of soil or cardboard until just germinated, as the small seeds need darkness in order to germinate.
- Start indoors 10-12 weeks before last frost or direct seed outdoors after last frost.
- Ideal germination temperature is 70-75 F.
- Prefers full sun and mild summer weather; they cannot handle extreme heat and humidity.
- A fairly drought-tolerant plant; do not over water.
- Space plants 9-12 inches apart.
- Provide rich, well-drained soil.
- Deadhead to encourage continued blooming.
PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
- A fairly pest-free plant, but sometimes bothered by aphids.
- Treat aphids with organic insecticidal soap.
- Seeds are quite small and contained within a capsule.
- Harvest capsules when brown and dry, before the capsules shatter.
