Foxglove 'Dalmatian Purple' (Digitalis purpurea) - shade-loving flowering perennial - 11 cm pot - Height 25 cm

In full bloom, the Dalmatian Purple Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) grows flower spikes between 80 cm and 120 cm tall, sometimes even taller in rich, moist soils. Its basal rosette of velvety leaves remains close to the ground at 20–30 cm tall. The flower spikes bear dozens of bell-shaped flowers arranged in dense spikes along their entire length, giving them a highly structured vertical form. This verticality makes it an excellent accent plant in a shaded border, where it can be paired with broad-leaved plants such as hostas or ferns for striking textural contrast.

Yes, all parts of the Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea), leaves, flowers, seeds and roots, contain cardiac glycosides (digitalis, digitoxin) which are toxic to humans, dogs, cats and horses if ingested. Poisoning can cause heart problems, nausea and vomiting. It is therefore strongly recommended to plant Foxglove out of reach of young children and nibbling animals.

Digitalis purpurea is a biennial plant that often behaves as a perennial depending on conditions. In its first year, it forms a basal rosette without flowering; in the second year, it produces its spectacular flower spikes and then goes to seed. In well-worked soil and a cool position, it self-seeds spontaneously and behaves like a garden perennial for many years. The Dalmatian series was selected to flower from the first year when planted early, making it an additional asset.

Dalmatian Purple foxglove pairs beautifully with large-leaved plants in shaded beds. Combine it with blue or golden hostas for a striking contrast in texture and colour, or with ferns for a natural woodland effect. White or pale pink astilbes extend the summer flowering season and complement the colour palette. For maximum impact, mix Dalmatian Purple with other varieties from the same series in white (Dalmatian White) or pink (Dalmatian Rose) to create an elegant tonal display of bells.

The Dalmatian Purple Foxglove is ideally planted in spring, from March to May, as soon as the last severe frosts have passed, or in l'autumn from September to October for very early establishment. Prepare a planting hole twice as wide as the pot, amend the bottom with compost, and cover the crown flush with the soil without b'urying it. Spacing of 30 to 40 cm between plants allows each rosette to develop freely. Water thoroughly at planting and maintain regular moisture for the first two to three weeks.

Absolutely: Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is one of the most effective plants for attracting bumblebees, particularly the Buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) and the Early bumblebee (Bombus pratorum). The tubular, elongated shape of its bells is perfectly suited to the morphology of these insects, which enter them completely to reach the nectar. The internal spots at the base of the bell act as visual guides to the nectaries. Other solitary bees and certain hoverfly species also visit the flowers.

The Dalmatian Purple Foxglove can be grown in a pot provided that a few essential conditions are met. Choose a container at 'least 25-30 cm in diameter and depth to allow the rosette to 'establish properly. Use a rich, well-draining, slightly acidic substrate (a mix of multipurpose potting soil and compost). Place the pot in a shaded or partially shaded area, 'sheltered from direct 'afternoon sun. 'Watering will need to be more regular than 'in the ground, as pots dry out faster.