A perennial foxglove with elegant spires of pure-white, tubular flowers in June and July. Height 1.5m. Spread 60cm. Full sun/partial shade. Hardy. Attracts bees.
Digitalis purpurea var. Alba is an elegant perennial foxglove that produces tall spires of pure-white tubular flowers in early to mid-summer. Growing up to 1.5m in height with a spread of around 60cm, it is ideal for the middle or back of borders. This variety thrives in full sun to partial shade, attracts bees, and will self-seed naturally to return year after year, making it both a beautiful and wildlife-friendly choice for the garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The best time to plant Digitalis purpurea var. Alba is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This helps the roots establish strongly before the flowering season.
Autumn: Alternatively, planting in early autumn allows Digitalis purpurea var. Alba to settle in before dormancy, encouraging vigorous growth the following year.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Digitalis purpurea var. Alba thrives in full sun or partial shade. Choose a location that enjoys bright light but can also tolerate dappled shade for part of the day.
Soil: Plant Digitalis purpurea var. Alba in moist, fertile, well-drained soil. Adding organic matter such as compost or leaf mould helps improve soil quality and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil before planting. This ensures Digitalis purpurea var. Alba has access to essential nutrients.
Planting: Place the plant into the hole, ensuring the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill carefully, firming the soil around the roots.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly after planting to help Digitalis purpurea var. Alba establish quickly, but make sure the soil drains freely.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods. Digitalis purpurea var. Alba does not tolerate prolonged drought but dislikes waterlogging.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering significantly in the dormant months, giving only enough to prevent the soil from drying out completely.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to encourage healthy growth and flower spikes.
Mid-Summer: A light feed after flowering helps Digitalis purpurea var. Alba maintain energy and supports self-seeding for the next season.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to prolong blooming and keep the plant tidy. Allow a few flower spikes to set seed if you want Digitalis purpurea var. Alba to self-seed naturally.
Autumn Pruning: Once flowering is complete, cut stems back to the base to prepare the plant for winter.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Winter: Mulch again in colder months to protect roots and improve soil health for the next season.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Digitalis purpurea var. Alba grows tall, so in windy spots stakes may be necessary to keep flower spikes upright and prevent damage.
Final Tips
Digitalis purpurea var. Alba is a striking perennial that adds elegance to borders and attracts pollinators such as bees. By planting in fertile, moist but well-drained soil and providing consistent care, this foxglove will reward you with tall spires of pure-white blooms each summer. Incorporate Digitalis purpurea var. Alba into your planting scheme for a timeless display that enhances the beauty of your garden year after year.
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Wendy (verified owner) –
Jenny Hewitt (verified owner) –
Healthy strong plant