Digitalis | Heijnen Plants

Digitalis purpurea Common foxglove

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120cm

Digitalis purpurea 'Gloxiniiflora' Foxglove Gloxinioides Group

5-10cm

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120cm

Digitalis grandiflora Large yellow foxglove

5-10cm

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3^20From

150cm

Digitalis purpurea 'Alba' White-flowered foxglove

5-10cm

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180cm

Digitalis purpurea 'Apricot' Foxglove

5-10cm

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Buy Digitalis

The genus Digitalis, known commonly as foxglove, is a collection of herbaceous and shrub plants that grace gardens with their distinctive bell-shaped flowers. Particularly favored for border planting or as a standout solitary feature, Digitalis species can transform a garden space with their statuesque presence and array of flower colors. Their towering spikes are adorned with blooms in hues ranging from soft pinks to deep purples, glowing yellows to pristine whites, and some varieties even boast flowers with charming speckles inside. Foxgloves typically bloom from late spring through summer, adding height and color to the garden when many other plants are just beginning to develop.

Key Features

Digitalis species are versatile in their soil and lighting needs, thriving in everything from full sun to shade and accommodating a variety of well-drained soil types. An upright growth habit allows these plants to stand tall, with foliage that remains green from spring to autumn. While not evergreen, certain Digitalis varieties can exhibit semi-evergreen or deciduous characteristics depending on the climate and conditions.

Foxgloves are not fruit-bearing and have average water needs, making them relatively low maintenance. However, they are not drought-resistant, necessitating consistent moisture during dry periods. The genus does not have evergreen species; their foliage will die back in winter, but they will return the following spring.

Tips

For gardeners looking to propagate Digitalis, it can be easily done through seed sowing or division. Seed sowing can be done after the flowering period, while division should be performed in spring or autumn to encourage vigorous growth and maintain plant health. Pruning is also a key aspect of Digitalis care; deadheading faded flowers will not only prevent self-seeding but also encourage a neat appearance and promote further growth.

When planting Digitalis, it is important to consider their mature height and spread to ensure they have enough space to develop fully. Although they can adapt to various light conditions, partial shade can help prevent the midday sun from scorching the foliage. Moreover, while they can tolerate a range of soil conditions, ensuring good drainage will help prevent root rot and other moisture-related issues. Regular watering during dry spells will keep your Digitalis healthy and vibrant.

Types

Description

Embrace the majesty of towering spires adorned with bell-shaped blossoms that lend an air of fairy-tale enchantment to any garden setting. Foxgloves, with their distinctive glove-like petals, stand as proud sentinels in the tranquil realm of flora, inviting a diverse tapestry of pollinators. Their stately presence is a testament to nature's splendid architecture, offering a variety of hues and sizes to complement the discerning gardener's palette.

Species

The Digitalis grandiflora, commonly acknowledged as the large yellow foxglove or cream-coloured foxglove, is a distinguished perennial that graces gardens from Europe to Western Siberia. Its stunning brown and white speckled blooms enchant onlookers from June to September. Unlike its biennial counterparts, this species offers a reliable and enduring presence within the garden, adding both height and a touch of wildflower elegance. Its stately spires are a magnet for bees, contributing to the vitality of pollinator ecosystems.
The Digitalis purpurea, commonly known as the common foxglove or bloody bells, is a striking biennial plant native to Western Europe. With its towering spires of bell-shaped flowers in shades of purple and pink, it adds a touch of wild charm to any garden. The common foxglove typically blooms from May through September, providing an extended period of visual interest and attracting a host of pollinators to the garden. Its majestic presence and vibrant colors make it a favorite among garden enthusiasts.
The Digitalis purpurea 'Alba', or white-flowered foxglove, is an enchanting variant of the classic foxglove, bringing a serene and pure presence to the garden with its elegant white blooms. Flourishing across Europe, this plant is a beloved summer bloomer, with its flowers gracing gardens from May through September. Its statuesque spikes add vertical interest to any planting scheme and are particularly striking when set against a backdrop of darker foliage, creating a striking contrast that captivates the eye.

Ideal placement of a Digitalis

Thrives in a variety of locations, from full sun to partial shade, and even in shaded areas, though flowering is most prolific with greater light exposure. While Digitalis is adaptable to various soil types, it flourishes in rich, {S. well-drained soils}. To optimize growth and flowering potential, ensure the soil is fertile and retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Regular watering will maintain its health, particularly during dry spells, as it is not drought-resistant. The plant's adaptability makes it an excellent choice for borders or as a striking solitary specimen within a garden design.

Planting a Digitalis

For successful establishment, Digitalis requires a well-drained soil in a location that can range from full sun to shade. When planting, ensure there is ample space between each specimen to accommodate their upright growth habit, which allows for adequate air circulation and light penetration. Planting can be carried out throughout the year, barring frost conditions, as they come in pots with developed root systems. After planting, it is crucial to maintain consistent moisture levels in the soil, especially during the initial growth phase, to promote vigorous development and a stunning floral display in the subsequent flowering months.

Fertilising a Digitalis

To maintain the robust growth and vibrant blooms of Digitalis, it is essential to provide adequate nutrients. Fertilizing should be done in early spring to kickstart growth. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is ideal, as it ensures a steady supply of nutrients throughout the flowering months. Apply the fertilizer according to package instructions, taking care to distribute it evenly around the base of the plant without coming into direct contact with the foliage or stems to prevent burn. Watering after application helps to integrate the nutrients into the soil. Repeat this process as the growing season progresses, typically every 6 to 8 weeks, to sustain the plant's needs. Proper fertilization will reward you with a lush display of foliage and a profusion of flowers from spring to fall.

Pruning a Digitalis

To encourage the vigorous growth of Digitalis and maintain a tidy appearance, it is essential to regularly deadhead by removing the spent blooms. As the flowers begin to fade and wilt, cut them back to just above the next healthy bud to prevent self-seeding and to potentially stimulate a second bloom. This procedure is particularly beneficial during the peak flowering months from May through September. Implementing this simple pruning technique will ensure that the stately spires of Digitalis continue to captivate and add structural elegance to garden borders.

Watering a Digitalis

The Digitalis thrives with a consistent moisture level in the soil, which should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging. During the growing season, ensure the soil around the plant does not dry out completely, particularly in times of drought or extreme heat. While the plant has an average water need, it is not drought-resistant and will benefit from regular watering. It's best to water deeply at the base to encourage a strong root system, rather than frequent, shallow waterings that may not reach the deeper roots. Adjust watering frequency based on rainfall and the plant's location, whether in sun or shade.

The characteristics of a Digitalis

Digitalis thrives in moist, well-draining soil, so ensure its pot has adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. This species enjoys light but benefits from partial shade during the hottest part of the day, which mimics its natural woodland habitat. When planting in containers, consider a loamy potting mix to provide the necessary nutrients and texture for optimal growth. Their stately spires add vertical interest to any garden display and are particularly enchanting when planted in groups.

Separating/dividing a Digitalis

Dividing Digitalis is a beneficial practice for promoting vigorous growth and bloom production. Ideally, this task should be undertaken in the milder conditions of spring or autumn to minimize stress on the plant. Carefully lift the entire plant from the soil, taking care to preserve as much of the root system as possible. Once lifted, the plant should be split into smaller sections, ensuring each has a healthy portion of roots. Replant these divisions promptly, spacing them adequately to accommodate future growth. This process not only rejuvenates the plant but also helps to proliferate your Digitalis collection.

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