This is a biennial or short-lived perennial, which may last longer and rebloom if deadheaded. It sports dramatic blossoms in contrasting colors in spires reaching six feet high in rich soil, but more likely to 3 or 4 feet.
Noteworthy CharacteristicsLarge, white bells with rich, burgundy throats. Digitalis leaves are very poisonous.
CareThis plant prefers moist, acidic soils in part shade.
PropagationWill naturalize; may not come true from seed.
ProblemsNothing serious, but watch for occasional powdery mildew, leaf spot, aphids, mealy bugs, slugs, and Japanese beetles.
Fine Gardening Recommended Products
Planting in a Post-Wild World: Designing Plant Communities for Resilient Landscapes
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
The Nature of Oaks: The Rich Ecology of Our Most Essential Native Trees
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
Pruning Simplified: A Step-by-Step Guide to 50 Popular Trees and Shrubs
Fine Gardening receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
- Genus : Digitalis
- Plant Height : 3 to 6 feet
- Zones : 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Plant Width : 6 to 12 inches
- Characteristics : Attracts Hummingbirds, Self Seeds
- Bloom Time : Early Summer, Late Spring, Spring, Summer
- Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
- Maintenance : Low
- Moisture : Medium Moisture
- Growth Rate : Moderate
- Plant Type : Perennials
- Flower Color : Red, White
- Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
Plant Characteristics are only available to Fine Gardening members
Sign up for a free trial and get instant access to our complete plant guide as well as our entire collection of articles and videos.
