Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’
£8.95
A Digitalis crossed with an Isoplexis, from the Canary Isles makes this perennial exotic looking and also perfect to grow in the UK. Masses of hot pink flowers with a creamy-yellow spotted throat with delicate orange-pink markings on tall, elegant stems over a long flowering period from June to November. Height 90cm. Spread 60cm. Full sun/partial shade, well-drained soil. Hardy. Attract bees.
Description
Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ is a striking perennial with tall, elegant stems adorned with masses of hot pink blooms featuring creamy-yellow throats and delicate orange-pink markings. Flowering from June to November, it’s perfect for borders, wildlife gardens, or large containers. This hardy perennial attracts bees and makes a bold statement in any outdoor space.
PLANTING and AFTERCARE GUIDE
Best Planting Time
- Spring: The ideal time to plant Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ is in spring. This allows roots to establish before the main flowering season begins.
- Autumn: Planting in early autumn is another option, as it helps the plant settle in before the following growing season.
Site Selection
- Sunlight: Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ thrives in full sun to partial shade. Choose a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily for best results.
- Soil: Ensure the soil is well-drained and fertile. Incorporate compost or organic matter to improve texture and drainage, as this perennial does not tolerate waterlogging.
Planting Instructions
- Prepare the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
- Soil Preparation: Mix organic matter into the backfill soil to enhance fertility.
- Planting: Position the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface. Backfill gently and firm in place.
- Watering After Planting: Water thoroughly to help the roots settle, ensuring excess water can drain freely.
Watering Requirements
- Growing Season: Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry spells. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between waterings.
- Dormant Season: Reduce watering to a minimum. Only water if the soil becomes very dry.
Feeding
- Spring: Apply a balanced fertiliser to give Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ a strong start.
- Mid-Summer: A light feed during flowering encourages more blooms and sustains plant health.
Pruning
- Deadheading: Remove faded flowers regularly to prolong blooming and keep plants looking tidy.
- Autumn Pruning: Once flowering has finished, cut stems back to the base to encourage healthy regrowth the following year.
Mulching
- Spring: Apply a mulch of compost or bark chips around the base of Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
- Winter: Mulching also helps protect the crown and roots from extreme cold.
Supporting the Plant
- Staking: While Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ grows on sturdy stems, staking may be useful in exposed gardens to prevent wind damage.
Final Tips
Digitalis x valinii ‘Falcon Fire’ is a low-maintenance, high-impact perennial that offers months of colour and elegance. With its long flowering season and pollinator-friendly blooms, it makes an excellent addition to beds, borders, and wildlife gardens. Plant in full sun or partial shade with well-drained soil, and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular displays year after year.
Additional information
Pot Size | |
---|---|
Plant Botanical Type | Perennial (herbaceous) |
Flower Colour | Pink, Cream |
Leaf Colour | Green |
Varigated Leaf | No |
Scent | No |
Height | 0.9m |
Spread | 0.6m |
Blooms/foliage interest in | Summer, Autumn |
Evergreen | No |
Hardiness | mild winter to – 5C |
Container | Borders and Containers |
Sun/shade | Full sun, partial shade |
Soil Type | Loam (normal) |
Soil PH | Neutral |
Drainage | Well drained soil |
Hazerdous | Harmful if eaten |
Insect Attraction | Bees and Butterflies |
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