Foxglove Digitalis sceptrum

Water

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) prefers consistently moist soil; therefore, it is essential to water the plant thoroughly once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil drainage. During the growing season in spring and summer, ensure that you provide about one to one and a half gallons of water each week, which can be adjusted if the weather is especially hot or dry. In the winter, watering can be reduced because the plant's water requirements decrease as it enters dormancy. Water the foxglove at the base to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the top inch of the soil before watering to ensure it's dry, as overwatering can cause root rot.

Light

Foxglove thrives in partial shade to full sun; however, in hotter climates, they benefit from afternoon shade to prevent scorching. An ideal spot would be where the plant receives morning sunlight and some shade during the hottest part of the day. They can tolerate full sun in cooler climates, but the soil should not be allowed to dry out.

Temperature

Foxgloves prefer a temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F for optimal growth. They can survive minimum temperatures down to 40°F, making them suitable for many garden settings. However, they may struggle in temperatures exceeding 90°F; in such conditions, they require ample shade and water to remain healthy.

Pruning

Prune Foxglove after flowering by removing spent flower spikes to encourage a second bloom and prevent the plant from using energy on seed production. Pruning in late fall or early winter helps maintain plant health by removing dead or diseased foliage. Deadheading during the growing season can also promote bushier growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Madeiran Foxglove (Digitalis sceptrum) prefers a well-draining soil mix with a good amount of organic matter such as peat or leaf mold, which maintains moisture without waterlogging. A loamy soil with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal for this plant to thrive, ensuring it has the nutrients it needs while avoiding overly alkaline conditions.

Repotting

Madeiran Foxgloves generally need to be repotted every 2-3 years to ensure they have enough room for growth and to replenish nutrients in their soil. It's best to repot in the spring when they have finished blooming and are entering a period of active growth.

Humidity & Misting

Madeiran Foxglove thrives in moderate to high humidity levels, with ideal ranges between 40% and 70%. They can tolerate brief periods of lower humidity but sustained dry air can lead to stress and inhibit growth.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright, indirect light and maintain moderate humidity.

• Outdoor

  Choose partial shade, protect from strong winds, and mulch soil.

• Hardiness zone

  9-11 USDA

Life cycle

Digitalis sceptrum, commonly known as the Madeira foxglove, begins its life cycle as a seed, which requires a well-drained soil medium and light to germinate. Once the seedling emerges, it enters a vegetative stage, during which it develops a rosette of leaves and establishes a strong root system. As it matures, the plant initiates a flowering stage, typically in its second year, where tall spikes adorned with tubular, bell-shaped flowers bloom; these flowers are usually pollinated by bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into seed capsules, and once mature, these capsules release seeds, thereby completing the reproductive cycle. During its lifespan, Digitalis sceptrum is a biennial plant, meaning it typically completes its life cycle, from germination to seed production, within two years. After setting seed, the plant usually dies, although occasionally it may persist and behave as a short-lived perennial if conditions allow.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring to early summer

• Digitalis sceptrum, commonly known as the Monarch's or Queen's Glove, is typically propagated by seed. The best time to sow seeds is either in late winter or early spring, aiming to provide enough time for the seedlings to establish themselves before the onset of the colder months. To propagate by seed, one would scatter the seeds thinly on the surface of a well-drained seed starting soil mix, barely covering them with a fine sprinkling of soil. They need light to germinate, so avoid burying them too deeply. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and maintained at a temperature of around 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 21 degrees Celsius). Seedlings usually appear within two to three weeks, at which point they can gradually be acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being transplanted to their final growing locations.