Strawberry Foxglove

Strawberry Foxglove (Digitalis x mertonensis)

Strawberry Foxglove (Digitalis x mertonensis) is a refined, longer lived hybrid between large yellow foxglove and common foxglove, prized for tall spires of warm strawberry rose bells with softly speckled throats. Flowering from late spring into early summer, it forms a neat clump of deep green foliage and sends up sturdy, well branched stems that add vertical structure and an uncommon brick rose tone to cottage borders, woodland edges, and mixed plantings in sunny to lightly shaded, well drained sites.

Distinctive Features

Graceful wands carry outward facing tubular flowers in shades of strawberry, rose, and dusky apricot with fine interior spotting; more perennial than classic biennial foxgloves, this hybrid returns reliably for several seasons and may self sow lightly to weave natural drifts.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade; provide afternoon shade in hot climates.
• Soil: Rich, well drained, moisture retentive soil; avoid soggy sites.
• Water: Moderate and even moisture, especially during bud and bloom.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4 to 8.
• Mature Size: About 24 to 36 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide.
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer; side shoot rebloom with deadheading.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Warm rose spires add vertical architecture and unusual color.
• Cottage Borders: Blends beautifully with roses, nepeta, salvia, and hardy geraniums.
• Woodland Edge: Performs in bright shade with sharp drainage.
• Back or Mid Border: Uniform stems frame plantings without overwhelming.
• Cut Flowers: Tall stems and textured bells enhance arrangements.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep evenly moist during active growth; water deeply but infrequently once established.
• Deadheading: Remove spent spikes to encourage side shoots and extend bloom; allow some seed if naturalizing.
• Fertilizing: Top dress with compost in spring or use a light, balanced slow release fertilizer.
• Staking: Usually unnecessary; stake only in very windy exposures.
• Safety: All parts are toxic if ingested; site away from pets and children and wear gloves when handling.

Why Choose Strawberry Foxglove?

• Unique Color: Distinct strawberry rose tones that pair with both pastels and bold schemes.
• Perennial Habit: Longer lived and more reliable than many foxgloves.
• Strong Garden Presence: Sturdy, outward facing blooms read from a distance.
• Pollinator Friendly: Nectar rich bells attract bees and hummingbirds.
• Low Fuss: Easy culture with simple deadheading and even moisture.

Digitalis x mertonensis delivers graceful spires, uncommon color, and dependable performance, offering weeks of vertical drama and pollinator activity in well drained, sunny to lightly shaded gardens.