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DIGITALIS
Commonly known as Foxglove
All JUN-JUL
Genus of 25 species of biennials, perennials and shrubs from Europe, the Canary Islands and Madeira, northwestern Africa and central Asia, generally found in open woodland.
D. purpurea is the common and well-loved foxglove though etymologically probably refers to fairy bells rather than Reynard's mittens.
The medical use for this dangerous plant was discovered in 1785 by William Withering. Effects were recognised but not understood.
Further Reading....
- Details
- Mature Size
- Tips and Advice
- Goes Well With
- Planting Combinations
- Other Suggestions
- See Also...
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White - speckled white
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Height - 70cm (28in)
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Spread - 60cm (24in)
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Herbaceous - Early in the year, typically January till end of March, herbaceous plants might be supplied in 9cm pots to ensure timely despatch. - ovate to lance-shaped, usually toothed, silver felted leaves (similar to lamb's ears - stachys) 10-25cm (4-10in) long.
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Hardy - cold winter - Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)
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Full sun
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Partial shade
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Caution, toxic if eaten - Do not eat these plants.
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Additional Features - Good to know - - wildlife plant - bees, caterpillars of moths and butterflies. Will re-grow from seed becoming variable
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Pests & Diseases - leaf spot, powdery mildew
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Place of origin - Europe
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Flower Shape - Spikes -
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Tubular - tubular-bell-shaped to 5cm (2in) long
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Hardiness - Fully hardy -
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Seasonal Interest - Summer -
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Soil Conditions - Tolerates all - - except very wet or dry. Humus-rich
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Wildlife - Bee friendly -
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Rabbit Resistant
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Digitalis - Growing Guide
70cm (28in)
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60cm (24in) |

DIGITALIS grandiflora
Yellow foxglove
Available from £12.50

DIGITALIS purpurea albiflora
Common foxglove, Fairy thimbles, Dead men's bells
Available from £12.50

SALVIA argentea
Silver sage
Available from £12.50

ANEMONE x hybrida 'Honorine Jobert'
Japanese anemone, Japanese windflower
Available from £13.00
Buy Varieties of DIGITALIS

DIGITALIS 'Goldcrest' >
Commonly known as: Foxglove.
Soft orange-yellow flowers with pinkish-red overtones. Long flowering period


DIGITALIS purpurea albiflora >
Commonly known as: Common foxglove, Dead men's bells, Fairy thimbles.
Pure white

DIGITALIS purpurea Excelsior hybrids >
Commonly known as: Foxglove.
Pastel shades of the cultivated foxglove
DIGITALIS purpurea 'Snow Thimble' >
Commonly known as: Foxglove.
Pure white flowers with pale speckles


DIGITALIS purpurea 'Sutton's Apricot' >
Commonly known as: Foxglove.
An unusual foxglove with apricot-pink flowers