Species willow-leaved foxglove
yellow-pink flowers with yellow center, lime-green sepals and leaves on brown petioles and stems

willow-leaved foxglove

Digitalis obscura

The willow-leaved foxglove (Digitalis obscura) is a unique and amazing species of flowering plants. With its lance-shaped leaves covered in an array of fuzz, its dwarf habit of only growing to a size of about 10 to 20 cm, and its tall profusion of purple tubular flowers, this species provides a wonderful addition to any garden. The bright blooms artistically dotting the foliage from July to October are also essential sources of nutrition and shelter for bees and other insects. Its attractive display and easy maintenance make the willow-leaved foxglove a must-have in any garden, providing a beautiful and much needed touch of nature.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Division,Root Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Rusty-orange to greenish-yellow Flowers

Sun:

Part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Poisonous To Humans:

Yes

Poisonous To Pets:

Yes

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

The amount and frequency of watering for willow-leaved foxglove (Digitalis obscura) will depend on the stage of growth of the plant and the weather conditions it is exposed to. During the winter months, the plant can survive with minimal watering; once every 2 to 3 weeks should suffice. However, in the spring and summer, when the plant is actively growing and flowering, it should be watered more often, typically once every week or 2. For best results, soil that the plant is in should be allowed to dry out somewhat between waterings. If the soil is too wet for too long, it could lead to root rot and other plant diseases. Also, make sure to water the plant from the bottom, i.e. submerging the container in a bucket of water or using a hose with a shallow setting. Also be sure to use lukewarm water!

sunlight

Willow-Leaved Foxglove plants prefer cool to moderate climates with direct sunlight for part of the day. The plants should receive 4-7 hours of bright sunlight per day, ideally during the cool part of the day in the morning or late in the afternoon. Avoid direct mid-day sunlight as the leaves may burn in extreme heat. It is important to provide afternoon shade in particularly hot climates to ensure the plant's health.

pruning

Willow-leaved foxglove (Digitalis obscura) is a herbaceous perennial plant that prefers well-drained soil and full sun. Pruning of this plant should be done annually in late winter. Cut any dead material, such as buds, leaves or stems, off the plant. This will help to remove any disease or insect damage and allow the plant to focus its energy on producing new growth. Pruning should also be done to reduce the size of the plant, as it can become leggy and unruly when allowed to grow too tall. For a bushier and more compact growth, a light pruning of remove a few of the oldest stems and their buds just above the base of the plant can be done in late winter or early spring. This should be done yearly to keep the plant looking its best.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Digitalis obscura typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Digitalis obscura typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map