Salpiglossis sinuata ‘Café au Lait’ is an extraordinary annual grown for its large, velvety, trumpet-shaped flowers in an unusual palette of coffee, caramel, bronze and muted terracotta.
 
Each bloom is intricately traced with deep purple and chocolate-coloured veining, leading into a glowing golden throat. The complex colouring gives the flowers an almost hand-painted appearance and makes ‘Café au Lait’ particularly beautiful alongside creams, apricots, antique pinks and rich, moody shades.
 
The upright, branching plants produce flowers throughout summer and into early autumn. Ideal for sunny borders, containers and the cutting garden. The distinctive flowers bring rich colour and intricate detail to loose, garden-style arrangements.
 
Grow in full sun in fertile, moist but well-drained soil, preferably in a position sheltered from strong winds. Regular cutting and deadheading will encourage further flowers.
 
When to Sow: Jan-Apr
 
HOW TO SOW SALPIGLOSSIS:
Sow seeds onto moist well-drained compost and lightly press into the surface without excluding light. Propagate at 18-21°C and maintain light moisture during germination. Transplant seedlings carefully once large enough to handle and plant out after the danger of frost has passed.
 
Classification: Half Hardy Annual
Expert Level: Some experience required
Germination Time: 10-21 days
Flowering Time : Jun-Oct
 
Site: Full Sun
Soil Type: Chalk, Sand, Loam
Soil Acidity: Neutral
Moisture: Well-drained
 
Care: Protect young plants from cold conditions and deadhead regularly to prolong flowering.
Use: Borders, containers, cut flowers
Harvest: Cut stems once several flowers are open for best vase life.
 
Days to Maturity:120-150 days
Vase Life: 5-7 days
Height:60cm
Plant Spacing:30cm