A shorter form of foxglove with spikes of large, strawberry-pink flowers spotted copper-orange inside. Flowers from May to July. Height 75cm. Spread 35cm. Full sun/partial shade, well-drained soil. Hardy. Attracts bees.
Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ is a shorter foxglove variety producing striking spikes of large, strawberry-pink flowers with copper-orange spots inside. Flowering from May to July, this hardy perennial grows to 75cm tall with a 35cm spread, attracting bees to your garden. Its compact size makes it ideal for borders, containers, and mixed perennial plantings.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
Spring: The ideal time to plant Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ is in spring when the soil begins to warm. This allows the roots to establish before the flowering season, resulting in a strong, healthy plant.
Autumn: Alternatively, early autumn planting helps the plant settle before dormancy, promoting vigorous growth in the following spring.
Site Selection
Sunlight: Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location that receives at least 4–6 hours of sunlight daily for optimal flower development.
Soil: Well-drained soil is essential for Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’. Avoid waterlogged areas, and incorporate compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
Planting Instructions
Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This gives the roots room to expand comfortably.
Soil Preparation: Mix compost or organic matter into the planting soil to provide nutrients for vigorous growth.
Planting: Place your Digitalis in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with surrounding soil. Backfill gently, firming the soil to remove air pockets.
Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root establishment. Ensure the site drains well to prevent rot.
Watering Requirements
Growing Season: Once established, Digitalis requires moderate watering. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. Avoid overwatering to prevent root diseases.
Dormant Season: Water minimally during dormancy, only if the soil becomes excessively dry.
Feeding
Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support new growth and enhance flowering.
Mid-Summer: A light feed in mid-summer can extend the flowering period and maintain plant vigour.
Pruning
Deadheading: Remove spent flowers to prolong the bloom period, encourage additional flower spikes, and keep the plant tidy.
Autumn Pruning: After flowering, cut back to ground level to prepare for dormancy and support healthy regrowth next season.
Mulching
Spring: Apply mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use bark chips, compost, or other organic materials.
Winter: A winter mulch layer protects roots from frost and prevents soil heaving.
Supporting the Plant
Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ is relatively compact and usually does not require staking. In windy conditions, lightweight supports can prevent flopping.
Final Tips
Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ is a low-maintenance perennial that brightens borders and attracts pollinators. By planting it in well-drained soil with full sun or partial shade, and following this care guide, this Digitalis x mertonensis ‘Summer King’ will reward you with abundant, colourful blooms from late spring through mid-summer.
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Jenny Hewitt (verified owner) –
Healthy strong plant
John M. (verified owner) –
Good healthy plants Well packed.
angela (verified owner) –
Lovely big healthy plants