Digitalis purp. 'Hanabee White'

Introduction to Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White'

Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White' is an elegant variety of the classic foxglove, offering tall spires of striking pure white, bell-shaped flowers with softly speckled interiors. Known for adding vertical interest and a sense of grace to cottage-style gardens and shaded borders, this variety stands out not only for its visual impact but also for its ability to attract pollinators like bees. It’s an ideal choice for naturalistic, woodland, or informal planting schemes.

Typically grown as a biennial, 'Hanabee White' forms a rosette of foliage in its first year and flowers in the second, although with proper care or early-season planting, it can sometimes behave as a short-lived perennial.

Ideal Growing Conditions and Planting Tips

To get the best results from Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White', proper placement and soil preparation are essential.

• Position:

  • Prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.

  • Perfect for woodland gardens, mixed borders, or as a backdrop in cottage gardens.

• Soil Requirements:

  • Likes moist but well-drained soil rich in organic matter.

  • Tolerates a range of soil types but thrives in slightly acidic to neutral conditions.

• Planting Guidelines:

  • Space plants approximately 30–45 cm apart to allow for air circulation.

  • Plant in spring or early autumn for best establishment.

  • Works well in groups or informal drifts for maximum impact.

• Companion Plants:

  • Complements plants like ferns, hostas, aquilegia, and other woodland perennials.

  • Looks striking when combined with other white or pastel-flowered plants.

• Container Growing:

  • Can be grown in large pots or containers with good drainage.

  • Use a moisture-retentive compost enriched with organic matter.

Seasonal Care and Maintenance

Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White' requires minimal care, making it an excellent choice for gardeners of all experience levels.

• Watering:

  • Keep soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods and while establishing.

  • Avoid waterlogged conditions, which may lead to root rot.

• Feeding:

  • Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in spring to support strong growth.

  • Mulch around the base with compost to improve soil fertility and moisture retention.

• Deadheading and Flowering:

  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage additional flowering and prevent self-seeding if desired.

  • Alternatively, allow some flowers to go to seed to encourage natural reseeding for future displays.

• Pruning:

  • Cut back stems after flowering unless you wish to collect seeds.

  • Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.

• Pests and Diseases:

  • Generally trouble-free but may be affected by slugs or aphids.

  • Ensure good spacing and airflow to reduce risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew.

• Support:

  • Flower spikes may need staking, particularly in windy locations or exposed gardens.

• Toxicity Warning:

  • All parts of Digitalis plants are toxic if ingested. Exercise caution around children and pets.

  • Wear gloves when handling the plant, especially during pruning.

Garden Uses and Wildlife Benefits

Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White' adds not only beauty but ecological value to gardens. Its tall, white flowers offer contrast and light in shaded settings while supporting important pollinators.

• Flowering Period:

  • Typically blooms from late spring to mid-summer.

  • May provide a second flush if early deadheading is done.

• Height and Spread:

  • Grows up to 90–120 cm in height, with a spread of around 30–40 cm.

  • Provides excellent vertical structure in borders or along fences and walls.

• Wildlife Attraction:

  • A magnet for bees and other pollinators, especially long-tongued bumblebees.

  • Contributes to pollinator-friendly garden schemes and wildlife borders.

• Design Value:

  • Creates a soft, romantic effect with its pure white blooms.

  • Ideal for monochrome gardens, moonlight gardens, or to brighten up shady spots.

• Overwintering:

  • Hardy and can tolerate frost.

  • Mulch in autumn to protect young plants over winter and retain soil moisture.

Digitalis purpurea 'Hanabee White' is a graceful, wildlife-friendly addition to any garden. Its easy care, classic appearance, and reliable performance make it a favourite for gardeners looking to add elegance, height, and biodiversity to their outdoor spaces

• Size
  2 Ltr pot

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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