Tora Red Painted Tongue is a vibrant cultivar of Salpiglossis sinuata that brings theatrical color to summer and fall gardens. These frost-tender annuals grow 18-24 inches tall and produce intricate, jewel-toned blooms from June through November in zones 9-11. Starting from seed indoors takes about 8 weeks before your last frost, with flowers arriving 98-112 days after sowing. The striking red blooms and reliable performance in full sun make this a standout choice for gardeners seeking long-season color in warm climates.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
24in H x 12in W
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Moderate
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Tora Red Painted Tongue flowers from early summer straight through the first hard freeze, a blooming window that stretches five to six months. The blooms themselves are distinctly intricate, with the delicate, funnel-like structure characteristic of painted tongues. At 18-24 inches tall and 12 inches wide with a compact 8-inch spacing requirement, this cultivar slots easily into borders, containers, and mixed plantings without demanding excessive room. Starting seeds indoors gives you a head start in cooler regions, while direct sowing at the last frost date works for gardeners in warmer zones.
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Start seeds indoors 8 weeks before your last frost date in a temperature range of 70-75°F. Salpiglossis requires darkness to germinate, so surface sow the seeds, press them in lightly, sprinkle fine vermiculite over them, and cover with black paper to exclude light. Expect germination in 7-21 days. Keep seedlings under consistent moisture and warmth until they're ready to transplant.
Transplant hardened-off seedlings outdoors after your last frost date when soil has warmed. Space plants 8 inches apart in full sun and well-drained soil.
Direct sow seeds at your last frost date. Surface sow and cover with fine vermiculite, then place black paper over the area to block light, as these seeds require darkness to germinate.
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