Black Trumpet Salpiglossis is a rare heirloom variety that brings gothic drama to the garden with blooms that shift from deep burgundy to near-black, each crowned by a striking golden eye. This half-hardy annual grows to 19 inches tall with a 11-inch spread, thriving in full sun and preferring temperatures between 70 and 75°F. The sturdy stems make it exceptional as a cut flower, and its uncommon coloring transforms any arrangement or garden bed into something truly theatrical.
Full Sun
Moderate
9-11
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Moderate
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The flowers are genuinely unusual: burgundy petals that deepen to obsidian create a moody, almost midnight quality, then a golden eye cuts through the center with brilliant contrast. This rare color variant of Salpiglossis sinuata belongs in dark-themed gardens or paired with stark whites for maximum visual impact. The substantial stems hold their own in a vase, bringing architectural presence alongside their bewitching color.
Black Trumpet Salpiglossis excels as a cut flower, where its sturdy stems and dramatic coloring command attention in arrangements. It functions beautifully in ornamental gardens, particularly in all-black planting schemes or contrasted against white-flowering companions to amplify its gothic aesthetic.
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Start seeds indoors 6 to 8 weeks before your last frost date, planting at a depth indicated on the seed packet. Maintain soil temperatures around 70 to 75°F for germination. Seeds typically sprout in 14 to 30 days. Transplant seedlings into individual pots once they develop true leaves.
Harden off seedlings over 7 to 10 days by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. Transplant outdoors after all frost danger has passed and soil has warmed to at least 60°F. Space plants 18 inches apart. Handle seedlings gently, as they can be fragile during establishment.
Cut flowers for arrangements when blooms are fully open and the golden eye is fully visible. Cut in the early morning when stems are well-hydrated for maximum vase life. Salpiglossis flowers last well in water once properly harvested.
Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continuous blooming and maintain a compact, bushy form. Pinch back young plants when they reach 4 to 6 inches tall to encourage branching and fuller growth.
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