Digitalis mertonensis

Digitalis mertonensis 'Foxglove'

Why Buy Me?

• Perfect for pollinators, bees love this plant!
• Great for adding height to your perennial border
• Suits a cottage style garden theme

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun to partial shade. It thrives in dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade, especially in warmer climates. In the UK, it can tolerate more sun in cooler regions, but excessive afternoon sun in warmer areas may cause stress.

Soil:
Prefers moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil. It grows well in loamy, sandy, and clay soils, provided they are not too heavy or waterlogged. It benefits from soil rich in organic matter, so incorporating compost can improve growth.

Exposure:
Suitable for both sheltered and exposed positions, but it does best in sheltered spots with protection from strong winds. It is hardy throughout the UK (RHS H5), tolerating frost down to -15°C (5°F).

Drought Tolerance:
Low to moderate. Requires consistent moisture, especially during the flowering period. Drought conditions can cause early dieback of foliage, so regular watering during dry spells is beneficial.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in early spring or autumn when temperatures are mild, and soil is moist enough for establishing roots. Ensure the crown of the plant is just below soil level.

Spacing:
Space plants 50–65 cm (20–25 inches) apart. Digitalis mertonensis can reach a height of 90–120 cm (36–48 inches) with a similar spread, so adequate spacing is necessary for good air circulation and growth.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support healthy foliage and flower production. You can also use organic compost as a natural fertilizer.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch in spring with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to retain moisture, improve soil fertility, and suppress weeds. After flowering, prune the main flower spike to encourage side shoots and prevent self-seeding. In autumn, you can remove dead or damaged foliage to tidy up the plant.

Propagation:
Propagate by seed sown in a cold frame in late spring or early summer. Division can also be done in early spring to create new plants. Digitalis mertonensis comes true from seed, ensuring the characteristic strawberry-pink flowers.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
The plant forms a rosette of glossy, dark green leaves, which remain attractive through the growing season. Foliage growth is vigorous and helps provide structure in the early months.

Summer:
This is the highlight of the plant’s season. It produces tall spikes of striking strawberry-pink flowers with darker speckled interiors, blooming from early to mid-summer. These flowers are very showy and attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Autumn:
The plant will begin to fade as the flowers die back. The foliage may die down as the plant goes dormant, although the basal leaves may persist longer, depending on weather conditions.

Winter:
It is semi-evergreen in mild winters and retains some of its foliage. In colder climates, it may die back completely, but it is hardy enough to survive UK winters with minimal care.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Attracts bees, bumblebees, and hummingbirds due to its tubular, nectar-rich flowers. It provides valuable early-season food for pollinators.

Garden Use:
Digitalis mertonensis is perfect for adding vertical interest to borders, woodland gardens, or cottage-style plantings. Its tall flower spikes and vibrant strawberry-pink flowers make it a striking addition to any garden.

Companion Plants:
Pairs well with other perennials such as Salvia, Campanula, and Astrantia, as well as grasses like Miscanthus or Panicum. It also complements other foxgloves and late-summer bloomers, creating layers of colour and texture in the garden.

Transform your home and garden with the Digitalis mertonensis 'Foxglove' , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.