Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ is a captivating annual flower, offering an elegant and unusual addition to gardens. Its trumpet-shaped blooms feature a remarkable blend of creamy, velvety browns, golds, and purples. This unique color palette makes ‘Cafe au Lait’ a sophisticated and eye-catching choice for flower beds and containers.
Understanding Salpiglossis Cafe au Lait
Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ is a cultivar of Salpiglossis sinuata, also known as Painted Tongue or Velvet Trumpet Flower. Its flowers have a velvety texture with intricate veining, showcasing rich, muted tones from bronze and caramel to milky chocolate, often accented with deep purple veins and golden throats. These trumpet-shaped blooms measure one to two inches in diameter and appear in clusters. Originating from Chile and Argentina, Salpiglossis sinuata grows with an upright, bushy habit, reaching heights of 12 to 30 inches.
Optimal Growing Conditions
Light
Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ thrives in full sun, requiring at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. This promotes abundant blooming and robust plant growth. In climates with intense summer heat, providing some afternoon shade can prevent wilting or scorching.
Soil
Salpiglossis prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. An ideal pH range is slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0 and 7.0. Good drainage prevents waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other fungal issues. Amending the soil with compost or other organic materials improves its structure, fertility, and drainage.
Water
Consistent moisture is important for Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’, especially during dry periods. Keep the soil moist but never saturated, as waterlogging can be harmful. Water at the base of the plant to ensure water reaches the roots efficiently and minimizes foliage moisture, which helps prevent disease. Aim for about one inch of water per week during the growing season, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature.
Temperature and Humidity
Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ performs best in moderate temperatures, preferring daytime temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and cooler nighttime temperatures, ideally in the 50s Fahrenheit. As a cool-weather annual, it may struggle in extreme heat or humidity. Protecting plants from frost is important, as they are susceptible to cold damage.
Planting and Cultivation
Starting from Seed
Starting Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ from seed indoors is recommended, typically six to eight weeks before the last expected frost date. Sow seeds about ¼ inch deep in a seed-starting mix, ensuring they are covered as darkness is often required for germination. Maintain a soil temperature of 70-75°F (21-24°C); germination occurs within 14-30 days. Once seedlings emerge, provide ample light from a sunny windowsill or grow lights to prevent legginess. Before transplanting outdoors, harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over about a week.
Transplanting
After the danger of frost has passed, Salpiglossis seedlings can be transplanted outdoors. When preparing the bed, incorporate organic matter into the top 6-12 inches of soil to create a rich, well-drained environment. Space plants 9-12 inches apart for proper air circulation and growth. Minimizing root disturbance during transplanting helps reduce shock, and thorough watering immediately after planting encourages establishment.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Fertilizing
Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ benefits from regular feeding to support continuous blooming. Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two to four weeks after new growth appears or blooming begins. Alternatively, incorporate a slow-release granular fertilizer into the soil at planting for sustained nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Deadheading and Pruning
Regular deadheading of spent blooms is important for Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’. This encourages the plant to produce more flowers throughout the season by preventing energy diversion into seed production. Light pruning can also maintain a bushy shape and prevent legginess. Pinching the growing tips when plants are young, around 4 inches tall, further promotes bushiness.
Pest and Disease Management
Salpiglossis is generally pest-resistant. However, common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails can affect them. Aphids can be managed with a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap. Diseases like root rot and botrytis can occur, particularly in poorly drained or overly wet conditions. Ensuring good soil drainage and air circulation are primary preventative measures.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When Salpiglossis ‘Cafe au Lait’ fails to bloom, insufficient light is a common cause. Over-fertilization, especially with fertilizers high in nitrogen, can also lead to lush foliage but few flowers. Extreme temperatures can also hinder blooming, as these plants prefer cooler summer nights.
Leggy growth, characterized by tall, spindly stems, indicates the plant is not receiving enough light. Overcrowding can also contribute to legginess due to competition for light and air circulation. Pruning back leggy plants and ensuring proper spacing can promote a bushier habit.
Wilting or yellowing leaves can signal improper watering practices. Both underwatering, where the soil becomes too dry, and overwatering, which can lead to root rot, can cause these symptoms. Nutrient deficiencies can also cause yellowing, making consistent, balanced fertilization important.