Foxglove Digitalis × valinii Foxlight Plum Gold = 'Takfoplgo' (PBR) (Foxlight Series)

Water

The Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' prefers consistent moisture, meaning that the soil should never dry out completely but also should not be waterlogged. It is essential to water the plant once a week with about 1-2 gallons of water during active growth periods in the spring and summer, depending on the weather conditions. In hotter, drier periods, more frequent watering may be necessary to maintain soil moisture. Reduce watering in the fall and winter when the plant's growth slows down. Ensure that the plant has adequate drainage to prevent root rot, while being cautious not to leave the plant too dry for extended periods.

Light

Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' thrives in partial sunlight to dappled shade. The ideal lighting condition is morning sun followed by afternoon shade, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, particularly in hotter climates. A spot that receives bright, indirect light for the majority of the day is optimal for encouraging vibrant flowers and healthy foliage.

Temperature

The Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' prefers a temperate climate and fares best in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature down to about 40°F, but frost can be damaging, so it should be protected or brought indoors if temperatures approach freezing. It is not well-suited to extreme heat, so during hot summer spells, it's important to provide some shade.

Pruning

Prune Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' mainly to remove spent flower spikes, which encourages the plant to produce more blooms. Deadheading, the process of removing these faded flowers, should be done throughout the blooming season as necessary. Additionally, after the first flush of flowers, cutting the main spike can stimulate a second flowering. Pruning dead or damaged foliage can be done at any time to maintain the plant's appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

For the Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold', the best soil mix is well-draining soil rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5, which is slightly acidic. Adding compost or leaf mold can enhance soil structure and fertility.

Repotting

Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' should typically be repotted every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and accommodate root growth, preferably in the spring.

Humidity & Misting

Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold' prefers moderate humidity levels, but as a garden plant, it is tolerant of a wide range of outdoor humidity conditions.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and moist soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in partial shade, enriched, moist, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life cycle of Digitalis × valinii 'Takfoplgo', commonly known as Foxglove 'Foxlight Plum Gold', begins with seed germination, which typically occurs in warm, moist soil conditions. Once the seedlings emerge and establish themselves, they enter into a vegetative growth phase, developing a basal rosette of leaves and a strong root system. The plant then enters the flowering stage, producing tall, spiked inflorescences adorned with tubular, plum and yellow flowers that attract pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules containing numerous small seeds. Once the seeds are dispersed – either by wind, wildlife, or human intervention – the parent plant will typically die back if it is a biennial, concluding its life cycle. In some cases, the plant may survive as a short-lived perennial, potentially experiencing multiple flowering cycles before succumbing to environmental stresses or age.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to Summer

• The Foxglove hybrid Digitalis × valinii 'Takfoplgo' (Foxlight Series), branded as Foxlight Plum Gold, is generally propagated through seed since it's a hybrid and may not come true from divisions or cuttings. The best time to sow seeds is late winter to early spring, ensuring that the temperature range for germination is around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). The process involves scattering seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed starting mix, as Foxglove seeds require light for germination. Covering the container with a plastic wrap or placing it in a greenhouse can help maintain the necessary humidity and temperature. It may take a couple of weeks for the seeds to germinate, and once seedlings are established and frost danger has passed, they can be transplanted outdoors.