Salpiglossis sinuata Black Trumpets

The Salpiglossis 'Black Trumpets' or Salpiglossis sinuata is an annual plant with a slightly slender, but bushy habit. Its deep burgundy-red trumpet-shaped flowers catch the eye from late spring and continue blooming until late summer.

Its appearance resembles that of petunias. Its stems are indeed branching, flexible, and slightly trailing. It is also possible to encourage branching by pinching them, which will result in a bushy effect. The Salpiglossis will then form a clump 50 cm (20in) tall and 30 cm (12in) wide. The leaves are light green, lanceolate, and become smaller towards the top of the stem. The stem bears multiple flowers, which open like petunias and require sunlight to bloom. They have a tubular shape, measure 4 to 5 cm (2in), and appear velvety. Their burgundy-red color intensifies towards the center, highlighting the small bright yellow stamens. This deep color, combined with an airy appearance, blends easily into flower beds, adding small intense touches.

The Salpiglossis sinuate, somewhat forgotten, is nevertheless not very demanding. It prefers sunny and moist, well-drained soils, and will flower from June to September if you take care to remove faded flowers and optionally cut back the stems in August to encourage new growth. It fits well among tall summer flowers, providing volume and lightness, but it also thrives in container gardening. Its uncommon shade may seem exotic, but it adapts to many color compositions. It complements both romantic-style gardens and more vibrant and intense palettes.