Salpiglossis sinuata - Gloomy Rival

If ever a flower deserved a closer look, Salpiglossis 'Gloomy Rival' is the one. This dramatic flowering annual produces velvety, trumpet-shaped blooms in deep burgundy, smoky purple, and chocolate-maroon, each petal traced with intricate golden veining that looks almost hand-painted. Richly colored, theatrical, and wonderfully unusual, it brings sophisticated drama to cottage gardens, cutting gardens, containers, and pollinator-friendly annual plantings.

Growing approximately 24 to 36 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide, Salpiglossis 'Gloomy Rival' adds an upright, elegant presence to sunny borders and seasonal displays. Blooming from late spring through summer with regular deadheading, its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and butterflies while offering exceptional detail for bouquets and close-up garden moments. The moody blooms pair beautifully with silver foliage, lavender, pale pink cosmos, white nigella, blue bachelor buttons, cream-colored snapdragons, ornamental grasses, and other annual flowers that let its richly veined petals shine.

Plant Salpiglossis 'Gloomy Rival' in full sun where summers are mild, or provide light afternoon shade in warmer climates. Give it fertile, well-drained soil, consistent moisture, and regular deadheading to encourage even more flowers. Sophisticated, mysterious, and impossible to ignore, this heirloom annual proves that sometimes the moodiest flowers are the life of the garden party. Explore more seasonal favorites in our Annuals collection.