These gorgeous spikes can reach heights of 5 to 6 feet.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is one of the most striking spring and summertime blooms.
Foxgloves are a hallmark ofcottage gardensand along-flowering bloomfor backyard gardens throughout the South.
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you’re able to plant them anytime between spring and fall.
Here’s how to grow and care for this European native flower.
All they need to flourish is moist, rich, well-drained soil and partial sun.
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In the South, they thrive in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 6-9.
The flowers, which don’t appear until the second year, attract hummingbirds and bees.
They are alsodeer-resistant, making them a good choice for the edge of woodland gardens.
Foxglove also does well in dappled sunlight.
Soil
Give these plants soil that is rich in organic matter.
Foxgloves prefer acidic soil, but are highly adaptable and known to grow in alkaline soil as well.
Water
Foxglove requires moisture to thrive, but it doesn’t like wet feet.
Keep soil lightly moist.
Water regularly during dry spells and Southern heat waves, especially if the plant is flowering.
Apply a natural mulch around the plant to help keep the soil cool and moist.
Fertilizer
Foxgloves don’t require fertilizer as long as the soil contains sufficient organic matter.
Too much nitrogen can deter the plant from blooming.
Alternatively, you could add a fresh layer of compost around the plants in spring.
This is also a great opportunity tocut flowersfor bouquets.
For the longest-lasting display, cut the spikes when the lower third of flowers have opened.
Make certain to wear gloves as all parts of the plant are toxic.
Cut the flower stalks at the base, just above the first set of leaves.
Propagating Foxgloves
Foxglove is a short-lived perennial that often dies after its second year.
Seeds germinate best in soil that has reached 60 degrees Fahrenheit.
When sowing outdoors, loosen the top 6-8 inches of soil and work in lots of organic matter.
Indoors, you’ll want to use seed-starting mix and small, 3- or 4-inch pots.
Sprinkle the seeds thinly over the soil and cover very lightly, then mist to keep the soil moist.
Choose a pot that is a couple of inches wider than the rootball and that has drainage holes.
Use a loamy potting mix that contains compost.
Place the pot in partial or filtered shade, and water frequently so it doesn’t dry out.
Repot the plant into the next-largest container if the roots start to grow out the bottom of the pot.
Overwintering
Foxgloves are very winter hardy and don’t require special protection in the South.
They may also develop powdery mildew, but the problem usually isn’t serious to require treatment.
Aphids and Japanese beetles may attack foxglove.
The bell-shaped blooms themselves grow to be 2 to 3 inches long.
In most instances, the interiors of the tubular flowers are speckled with a darker, contrasting color.
A small rosette of flowers will hug the ground in the first growing season.
Wilting Foliage
Hot weather and underwatering can result in wilting foliage.
Water regularly so the soil is lightly moist, but always check soil moisture first.
Overwatering can also cause rot and lead to wilting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Foxgloves may reseed, but not prolifically.
While most poisonings occur from ingesting foxglove, it’s not a good idea to touch the plant.
Wash your hands after any exposure.
There are safer alternatives to foxglove that have pretty, pendulous flower spikes.
Try beardtongue (Penstemon spp.
), a native flower sometimes called foxglove beardtongue.
North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox.
