Foxglove 'Strawberry'

Strawberry Foxglove (Digitalis x fulva, syn. D. x mertonensis)
Strawberry Foxglove is a captivating and unusual variety, showcasing large, tubular blooms in warm, rosy-bronze tones reminiscent of ripe strawberries. Carried on strong, upright spikes reaching 2–3 feet, the flowers open from late spring into early summer, creating a striking vertical presence in borders, cottage gardens, and cutting beds. Its velvety texture and rich colour lend a sophisticated yet whimsical charm, making it a standout both in the garden and in bouquets.

A naturally occurring hybrid of Digitalis purpurea and Digitalis grandiflora, Strawberry Foxglove combines the showy, bold flowers of common foxglove with the perennial tendencies of yellow foxglove. In many climates, it behaves as a short-lived perennial, returning for multiple seasons when happy. Pollinator-friendly and deer-resistant, this variety attracts bumblebees while adding structure and drama to plantings. With elegant, towering spires and soft, warm hues, Strawberry Foxglove is a must-grow for romantic and naturalistic garden designs.

Caution: All parts of the plant are toxic if ingested—keep away from pets and children. Purchaser assumes all liability.

DETAILS:
 
QTY: 50

TYPE: Annual/Biennual

SITE: Full Sun - Part Shade

DEPTH: Surface

GERMINATION: 14-21 days at 18-21°C

HEIGHT: 30 - 40"

SPACING: 9 - 12"

PINCH: No

HOW TO GROW:
Indoors (recommended): Sow seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before your average last frost date. Do not cover seeds, as light is required for germination. Mist or bottom water gently to avoid displacing the tiny seeds. Keep the soil moist until germination, which can be tricky and may take up to 21 days. Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before transplanting outdoors after the last frost.

Direct Seed (alternative): Sow seeds directly outdoors as soon as the soil can be worked in early spring. This is only recommended for areas with long growing seasons, as foxglove blooms in its second year. Keep the soil evenly moist until the plants are established.

Pinching and Support: Pinching is not necessary for foxglove. Taller varieties will require staking or other support to prevent the heavy flower spikes from toppling over, especially in windy locations.

Soil Preference and Watering: Foxglove prefers full sun to partial shade and rich, well-drained soil. It requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season but will not tolerate soggy roots. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of fungal issues.

Fertilizing: Fertilizing is not typically necessary. Amending the soil with compost at the time of planting is usually sufficient.

Harvesting: For bouquets, harvest stems when the bottom third of the flowers on the spike have opened. Cut in the early morning or late evening and immediately place in a vase of water.

Other Tips: Foxgloves are typically biennials, meaning they will grow foliage in their first year and produce beautiful flower spikes in their second year. They often self-sow, so you may have new plants returning the following season.