Painted tongue (Salpiglossis sinuata)

Painted tongue

Also known as: Scalloped tube tongue

Painted tongue (Salpiglossis sinuata) is a flowering plant that is well-known for its vibrant and colorful flowers. It grows in moist soil and is a wonderful ornamental plant. Painted tongue attracts butterflies due to its attractive flowers. The plant is native to Chile and thrives in Anthropogenic habitats.

Scientific classification

Species

Painted tongue (Salpiglossis sinuata)

Nightshades, bindweeds, gooseweeds, and allies

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Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

60 cm

Plant Height

30 cm

Spread

Green, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Purple, Red, Pink, Orange, Blue

Flower Color

Green, Red, Purple, Pink, Yellow, Orange

Stem Color

Images of Painted tongue

Distribution of Painted tongue

Distribution Map

Painted tongue is native to the southern region of South America. Over time, it has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Today, painted tongue can be found flourishing beyond its original habitat in numerous temperate regions across these continents, where it has adapted to a variety of new environments.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Disturbed areas

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Painted tongue

Trumpet-shaped flowers with intricate veins, up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) across.

Deeply lobed, wavy leaves with a hairy texture and stickiness, reaching 4 inches (10 cm).

Slender stems reaching 18 to 30 inches (45 to 75 cm) in height.

Flower blooms are wide-throated, 5-lobed, and marbled, in various vibrant colors.

Flourishes best in cool conditions, requiring full sunlight to partial afternoon shade.

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Care Guide for Painted tongue

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Painted tongue thrives in moisture-rich conditions and requires consistent hydration. Preferably, it needs evenly moist soil with weekly watering. Mulching is beneficial, particularly during its active growing season, to help retain soil moisture and support its increased water demands.

Fertilize: To nourish painted tongue, use a high phosphorus fertilizer to promote blooming and growth. Apply a balanced solution every two weeks in spring and summer, tapering to monthly in fall. Dilute to half the recommended amount, check pH regularly, and water before fertilizing.

Pruning: Painted tongue is a vibrant flowering plant with trumpet-shaped blossoms. To promote continuous blooming, prune in early to late spring, removing spent flowers and dead foliage. Clean tools to prevent disease, enhance air circulation, and maintain a tidy appearance while encouraging new growth.

Propagation: Painted tongue features striking, veined flowers and is propagated by sowing. Use a well-draining mix, maintain moisture, and ensure seeds are pressed lightly into soil for light exposure. Transplant seedlings outdoors post-frost for optimal growth and vibrant blooms.

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