Strawberry Digitalis Plant

Strawberry Mertonensis Digitalis Plants are a rare beauty and considered to be one of the longest living Foxgloves to date. Producing stately stalks of bell-like flowers atop fuzzy foliage, the crushed strawberry-pink blossoms sport white spotted and deeply red mottled throats. Simply stunning! Foxgloves grow best in moist, well-drained soils. They can be grown in full sun in the north but prefer afternoon shade in southern gardens. Digitalis plants are attractive to hummingbirds and bumblebees and make striking cut flowers! Deer and rabbits tend to avoid them. Plants are not pet friendly.

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant in early spring or fall for best root establishment
• - Space plants 12-18 inches apart to allow for proper air circulation

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 5.5-6.5
• - Prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season, but avoid soggy conditions
• - Water deeply to encourage strong root growth, especially during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins
• - Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy growth

Pruning and Training:

• - Deadhead spent blooms to encourage more flowering and extend the blooming period
• - Cut back to basal rosettes after flowering to prepare for next season's growth

Additional Pest Management:

• - Digitalis is generally pest-resistant but may occasionally attract aphids or slugs
• - Ensure proper air circulation to avoid fungal issues like powdery mildew

Blooming Indicators:

• - Blooms in late spring to early summer with tall spikes of tubular flowers in various colors

Temperature Tolerance:

• - Hardy in USDA zones 4-9, tolerates light frost and cooler spring temperatures

Companion Plants for Digitalis:

• - Ferns: Provide soft, green foliage that complements Digitalis's tall flower spikes
• - Astilbe: Adds texture and late-blooming color to contrast with Digitalis
• - Brunnera: Offers bold, heart-shaped leaves that enhance the delicate nature of Digitalis blooms
• - Hosta: Provides bold foliage to contrast with the vertical nature of Digitalis
• - Echinacea: Complements Digitalis with its vibrant flowers and pollinator-friendly appeal