Digitalis × mertonensis (Strawberry Foxglove)

Digitalis × mertonensis, commonly called the Strawberry Foxglove, is a striking semi-evergreen perennial. It forms neat clumps and brings a soft, coppery-pink colour to your garden in late spring and early summer.

Plant Characteristics

• Height: Grows to approximately 75cm.
• Spread: Forms a clump up to 50cm wide.
• Foliage: Dark green, lance-shaped leaves with a slightly hairy underside.
• Flowers: Long, erect spikes of velvety, tubular flowers. Each flower is about 6cm long and has a unique coppery-tinted mauve-pink colour.

Other Names

This plant is also known by the synonym Digitalis × mertonensis grandiflora 'Purpurea'.

Benefits for UK Wildlife

The Strawberry Foxglove is excellent for pollinators. The tubular flowers are a perfect shape for bumblebees, which you will see regularly visiting the blooms. By planting it, you provide a valuable nectar source in late spring.

Planting and Care Tips

• Plant in partial shade or full sun, provided the soil stays moist.
• Choose a location with well-drained soil that does not dry out completely.
• It suits woodland garden borders or cottage garden schemes.
• After flowering, you can cut the main spike back to encourage smaller side shoots.
• This perennial is clump-forming and will reliably return each year.

Would you like a plant that adds vertical interest and helps your local bees? Digitalis × mertonensis achieves both with its elegant flower spires.