Sturdy stems hold tall, strong spires of cream-white flowers with gorgeous, burgundy-purple speckled throats. Height 1.2m. Spread 45cm. Flowers May to July. Full sun/partial shade. Short-lived perennial. Attracts bees.
Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ is a short-lived perennial with sturdy stems holding tall spires of cream-white flowers with burgundy-purple speckled throats. Growing to 1.2m tall with a 45cm spread, it thrives in full sun or partial shade and attracts bees. Its striking flowers bloom from May to July, adding height and colour to any garden.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The optimal time to plant Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows roots to establish firmly before the blooming season, resulting in a healthy and vigorous plant.
Autumn: Alternatively, Digitalis can be planted in early autumn. This gives the plant time to settle in before dormancy, encouraging stronger growth and flowering in the following season.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Digitalis flourishes in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to support optimal growth and flower production.
Soil: Ensure well-drained soil for Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged conditions, so good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Enrich the soil with compost or organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width and the same depth as the root ball. This gives Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ ample space for roots to spread.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the soil to enhance fertility and drainage.
Planting: Place your Digitalis into the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and encourage root establishment.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ is moderately drought-tolerant. Water during dry spells, letting the soil dry slightly between sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root issues.
Dormant Season: Reduce watering during dormancy. Only water if the soil becomes excessively dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ in early spring to support strong new growth and vibrant flowers.
Mid-Summer: A light feeding in mid-summer encourages continued flowering and helps maintain the plant’s vigour.
Pruning
Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ to prolong the blooming period, keep the plant tidy, and encourage new flower production.
Autumn Pruning: After flowering finishes, cut Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ back to ground level. This prepares the plant for dormancy and promotes healthier growth in the next season.
Mulching
Spring: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Organic materials like bark chips or compost work best.
Winter: Adding mulch in winter protects the roots from cold temperatures and prevents frost heaving.
Supporting the Plant
Staking: Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ has sturdy stems, so staking is rarely necessary. In windy locations, consider staking to prevent stem damage.
Final Tips
Digitalis ‘Sugar Plum’ is a spectacular short-lived perennial that brings height and colour to any garden. By planting it in full sun or partial shade, in well-drained soil, and following this care routine, this Digitalis will reward you with tall, striking flower spikes from May to July, attracting bees and enhancing your garden with its elegant beauty.
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Rosemary Joynson (verified owner) –
Fabulous
Wendy F. (verified owner) –