Foxglove 'Dalmation Purple' Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmatian Purple' (Dalmatian Series)

Water

Foxgloves, such as the Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmatian Purple', should be watered deeply and evenly, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plants once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil drainage. Each watering session should provide enough water to soak the top few inches of soil. For mature plants, this could translate to about 1 to 1.5 gallons every seven days. During hot, dry periods, you may need to increase the frequency of watering to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

Light

Foxgloves thrive under full sun to partial shade conditions. They perform best when they receive morning sunlight and some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. A spot that offers at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight is ideal for encouraging vigorous growth and optimal flowering.

Temperature

Foxgloves prefer moderate temperatures and do well in a range where the daytime temperature is between 60°F and 80°F. They can tolerate a minimum temperature of approximately 40°F and a maximum of about 90°F, but prolonged exposure outside this range could be harmful. The ideal temperature for Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmatian Purple' is within the cooler part of their tolerance range.

Pruning

Prune foxgloves after they have finished blooming to promote a second bloom and to keep the garden tidy. Cut back the flower stalks to the base, but leave the foliage, as it will continue to gather energy for the plant. In general, pruning can be done annually, immediately after the first flush of flowers has faded, usually in mid to late summer.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Foxglove 'Dalmatian Purple' thrives in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. A blend of two parts loam, one part sand or perlite, and one part peat or compost will create an ideal environment for healthy growth. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ideally ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal nutrient uptake.

Repotting

Foxglove 'Dalmatian Purple' typically does not need frequent repotting as it is often treated as a biennial plant. It will generally live for two years, flowering in its second year, so repotting may only be necessary if it is grown as a perennial, in which case repot only if the plant becomes root-bound.

Humidity & Misting

Foxglove 'Dalmatian Purple' prefers average to high humidity levels. It does not have specific humidity requirements, but maintaining a humidity level of around 40-60% is generally beneficial for this plant, as long as there is good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light, keep soil moist, and provide good air circulation.

• Outdoor

  Choose partial shade, ensure rich, well-drained soil, and space 12-18 inches apart.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmatian Purple', commonly known as Foxglove, begins its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in moist, well-drained soil in partial shade to full sun. The seedlings emerge and develop into a rosette of downy green leaves, establishing a strong root system. In its first year, Foxglove typically remains in this vegetative state, storing energy for the following year's growth. In its second year, it sends up a tall spike, or raceme, adorned with bell-shaped purple flowers that are spotted inside and attractive to bees and hummingbirds. After flowering, the plant produces capsule-like fruits containing numerous small seeds, which can self-sow if not deadheaded. Finally, Foxglove, as a biennial plant, typically completes its life cycle and dies after seed dispersal, although some plants may behave as short-lived perennials under favorable conditions.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagating Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmatian Purple') is through seed. Planting seeds can be ideally done in late spring or early summer, but they can also be sown in autumn if the climate allows. The tiny seeds should be spread on top of a well-draining soil mix and lightly pressed in, without covering them, as they require light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and maintain a temperature of about 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit (18-21 degrees Celsius). Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted to individual pots and later moved to their final position in the garden when they have established a good root system and are sturdy enough to survive the elements.