Digitalis obscura (Willow-Leaved Foxglove)


Botanical Information

FamilyPlantaginaceae
GenusDigitalis
Speciesobscura
CategoryPerennials
OriginSpain. The Genus name is derived from the Latin digitus (finger) due to the fact that the flowers have a shape reminiscent of fingers.
Ethnobotanical Uses
Disclaimer
Highly toxic leaves.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone4 - 8
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness Zone2a - 8a
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH4 - H7
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)-32 - (-7)
Temperature (°F)-25 - 20
Height30 - 60 cm
Spread23 - 46 cm
GrowthMedium
Flowering PeriodMay, June

Description and Growing Information

General DescriptionA perennial foxglove with a shrubby habit that has large, dark orange to greenish-yellow flowers that have red veining and spotting.
ShapeShrubby habit.
LandscapeA nice addition to any border, cottage, rock or woodland garden.
PropagationMay self-seed if the flower spikes are left in place, however as the spikes can be quite unattractive one can remove the majority of them and leave only a few for this purpose.
CultivationGrow in partial shade in a well-drained soil. Removing the flower spikes after the first bloom is finished will encourage a second bloom.
PestsProblems may be caused by powdery mildew and leaf spot, and aphids, mealy bugs, slugs, and Japanese beetles should all be watched for.
HabitatResident in areas of relatively low water content with a source of shade.
Leaf DescriptionLong, narrow, bright red leaves with the tips generally curled downwards.
Flower DescriptionFeatures large flowers that are dark orange to light greenish-yellow in colour, growing straight up with several petals curling downwards.
Fruit DescriptionThe fruit is a subconical capsule with numerous seeds, very fine seed.

Photographs