DIGITALIS pur. Dalmation Purple

Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple' Overview

Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple', commonly known as the Foxglove, is a captivating perennial renowned for its tall, elegant flower spikes adorned with vibrant purple blooms. This striking plant adds a touch of drama and sophistication to any garden, making it a popular choice for both seasoned gardeners and novices alike. Ideal for adding vertical interest to garden beds, borders, and woodland areas, this foxglove is sure to make a stunning impact.

Key Features of Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple'

• Botanical Name: Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple'
• Common Name: Foxglove
• Flower Color: Rich purple with speckled throats
• Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer (May to July)
• Height: 90-120 cm (36-48 inches)
• Spread: 30-45 cm (12-18 inches)
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Hardiness Zones: USDA zones 4-8

Planting and Growing Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple'

Planting Instructions

1. Location Selection: Foxgloves thrive in full sun to partial shade. Choose a location with well-draining soil and protection from the harsh afternoon sun, especially in hotter climates. A spot with morning sun and some afternoon shade is ideal.

2. Soil Preparation: Digitalis purpurea prefers rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Ensure the soil is loose and well-aerated to support healthy root development.

3. Planting: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil, firm gently, and water thoroughly to remove any air pockets.

4. Spacing: Space plants 30-45 cm (12-18 inches) apart to allow for their mature spread and to ensure good air circulation. This spacing helps prevent overcrowding and reduces the risk of fungal diseases.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple' remains healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season, follow these maintenance tips:

Watering

• Frequency: Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Foxgloves prefer evenly moist soil but should not be waterlogged.
• Method: Water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal problems. Using a soaker hose or drip irrigation is an effective way to maintain consistent moisture levels.

Fertilizing

• Timing: Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring, as new growth begins. This helps support vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
• Type: Use a fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10). Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for dosage and application frequency.

Pruning and Deadheading

• Deadheading: Remove spent flower spikes to encourage further blooming and maintain a tidy appearance. Regular deadheading can also prolong the flowering period.
• Pruning: After the first frost, cut back the foliage to ground level to prepare the plant for winter. This helps prevent disease and encourages fresh growth in the spring.

Pest and Disease Control

• Monitoring: Watch for common pests such as aphids and slugs. Regularly inspect plants and address any infestations promptly with appropriate treatments.
• Disease Prevention: Foxgloves can be prone to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust. Ensure proper spacing for good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to minimize disease risk. Remove and discard any infected plant material to prevent the spread of disease.

Design Ideas for Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple'

Companion Plants

Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple' pairs beautifully with a variety of other garden plants, creating dynamic and visually appealing combinations:

• Hostas: Combine with Hostas for a lush, shaded garden look. The bold foliage of Hostas complements the tall, elegant spikes of Foxgloves, creating a layered and textured effect.
• Astilbes: Plant alongside Astilbes to add contrast and texture. The feathery plumes of Astilbes provide a lovely complement to the tall, spiky blooms of Foxgloves.
• Lupines: Pair with Lupines for a stunning vertical display. The combination of Lupines' vibrant colors and Foxgloves' rich purple flowers creates a dramatic and eye-catching garden feature.

Landscaping Tips

• Garden Beds: Ideal for adding vertical interest to garden beds and borders. The tall spikes of Foxgloves create a striking focal point and can be used to frame other plants or garden features.
• Woodland Gardens: Perfect for naturalized areas and woodland gardens. The plant's tall flower spikes add height and interest to shaded or partially shaded areas.
• Cut Flowers: Excellent for use in cut flower arrangements. The long-lasting blooms are perfect for creating elegant bouquets and floral displays.

Conclusion

Digitalis purpurea 'Dalmation Purple' is a versatile and visually captivating perennial that enhances any garden with its dramatic purple blooms. Its tall, elegant flower spikes and vibrant color make it an excellent choice for garden beds, borders, and shaded areas. Visit our garden centre to find this exquisite Foxglove and see how it can elevate the beauty of your outdoor space

• Latin name
  DIGITALIS pur. Dalmation Purple
• Size
  2 Litre

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

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