Foxglove Dalmatian Rose

Digitalis often behaves as a biennial or short-lived perennial. In practice, this means the seedling will strengthen and bloom profusely after planting, but the mother plant itself usually dies after a few years. However, you don't have to worry about losing it. In a suitable location, it reliably self-seeds, which ensures it stays in your flower bed and provides continuous blooming.

This plant thrives best in sun or partial shade. It naturally grows on forest edges and clearings, so an ideal location is a cooler spot with higher humidity. It is very important not to plant it in permanently waterlogged soil, but rather to find a compromise—a place where it will have enough light but will not suffer from intense sun or excessive dryness.

You don't need to worry too much about overwintering. This cultivar is fully hardy down to -28 °C (Zone 5a), so it handles Central European winters with ease. The only thing to watch out for is the harsh winter sun, which could scorch the evergreen basal leaf rosette. To be safe, you can lightly cover the leaves with evergreen boughs for the winter.

Growing in large pots is theoretically possible, but it is not an entirely ideal choice for foxglove. The plant develops a strong root system and could suffer in a container from extremes – either drying out quickly or, conversely, becoming waterlogged, which is a particular risk during winter months. It will thrive best when planted freely in a garden bed.

Absolutely! Foxglove is a huge attraction for bees, bumblebees, and other beneficial pollinators. The bell-shaped flower is perfectly suited for these insects. You can often observe bumblebees crawling deep into the throat of the flower for pollen and nectar. By planting them, you will significantly support biodiversity in your garden.

No, the entire plant is highly poisonous to both humans and pets. It contains substances called digitalis glycosides, which can dangerously affect heart function. We recommend:

• Wearing gloves when handling the plant (e.g., during transplanting or pruning).
• Planting foxglove out of the reach of small children and curious pets.
• Always washing your hands thoroughly after working in the garden.

The plant will delight you with its flowers at the beginning of summer, specifically in June and July. Strong, tall stems grow from a basal rosette of green leaves, upon which large bell-shaped flowers bloom in succession. The 'Pam’s Choice' cultivar is unique in its coloring—the flower is creamy white on the outside, while the inner throat is adorned with deep burgundy spots and marbling.

Yes, and it does so very readily! Once the plant finishes flowering at the end of summer and the seeds ripen, it will self-seed in its surroundings. New young seedlings from this natural sowing will appear in the autumn or spring, and will bloom beautifully the following year. If you want to prevent it from spreading on its own, simply remove the faded flower stems in time.

Yes, Digitalis is great for cutting. The tall, sturdy stems full of flowers look absolutely fantastic in a vase and add a romantic touch to any interior. They last fresh in a vase of water for approximately six to eight days. However, the plant is not suitable for drying, so we recommend using it only as a fresh decoration.

We have great news! Foxglove is an exceptionally vital and hardy species. In our climate, it does not suffer from any common diseases or pests. It is a completely low-maintenance plant that even absolute beginners can successfully grow. Therefore, no chemical spray protection is needed.