How to Grow Painted Tongue (Salpiglossis): Exotic, Velvet Blooms for Cool Climates

How to Grow Painted Tongue (Salpiglossis)

Painted Tongue (Salpiglossis sinuata) is a striking cool-season annual from Chile with lance-shaped leaves and exotic, 5-lobed, velvet-textured flowers in orange, red, pink, violet, and yellow. A relative of petunias, peppers, and tomatoes (Solanaceae). Also called Peacock Flame, Velvet Trumpet Flower, or Scalloped Tube Tongue. Dwarf varieties reach 12–18 inches; standard 24–36 inches.

Propagation

Start indoors 4–6 weeks before last frost using a heat mat for best germination (14–21 days, up to 30). Keep consistently moist. Or direct-sow after frost when soil warms.

How to Grow Painted Tongue

• Light: Full sun to light shade.
• Soil: Average, well-drained.
• Water: Regular during dry/ hot spells.
• Fertilizer: Light feed every 4–6 weeks.
• Maintenance: Pinch young tips for bushiness. Stake stems against wind. Deadhead to prolong bloom. Mulch to conserve moisture. Performs poorly in hot, humid summers.

Bloom Time

Spring to mid-summer, and again in fall.

Pests & Diseases

Occasional aphids; diseases rare.