Long, narrow leaves grow in rosettes near the ground. Flower stems shoot upward to 2 feet with 3-inch-wide, petunia-like, purple, blue, or scarlet flowers marked with broad veins of gold. Cultivars include ‘Splash,’ ‘Bolero,’ and the more compact-growing ‘Casino’.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsThis plant has superior cold tolerance but becomes straggly in hot summers.
CareGrow in moist but well-drained, moderately fertile, humus-rich soil.
PropagationSow seed indoors in January, transplant outdoors in March. In mild areas, sow in situ in spring.
ProblemsAphids, gray mold (Botrytis), and foot and root rots
- Genus : Salpiglossis
- Plant Height : 1 to 3 feet
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Plant Type : Annuals
- Uses : Containers
- Moisture : Dry
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
- Light : Full Sun
- Flower Color : Red
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Summer Interest