Salpiglossis

Family: Solanaceae

Of these two species of annual, biennial or perennial plants from the Andes, only one species is in general cultivation, and it is usually grown as an annual.

Species

S. shinata, painted tongue, is very showy, producing large, striking, trumpet-shaped flowers in brilliant red, orange-yellow, purple or blueish violet, often veined with a contrasting colour. It grows 60-75 cm (24-30 inl high. There are numerous cultivars of this species but the dwarf kinds are preferred by gar. deners. These include Bolero Hybrids which are noted for their very large flowers, and Splash hybrids which are particularly free flowering.

Cultivation

Salpiglossis can be grown as summer display plants outdoors in warm sunny climates, or as pot plants in an intermediate greenhouse in cooler areas. Sow seeds in spring, germinated at about 21°C (70°F). Under glass, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost, in good light, but shade from sun. In the garden, grow in a sunny, sheltered spot with well-drained, moisture-retentive soil.

Climate

Zone 8.