Description
Digitalis thapsi | Fingerhut Foxglove ‘Spanish Peaks’
Fingerhut Foxglove, also commonly known as Spanish foxglove, is a short-lived perennial flower that grows as a tidy mat of fuzzy foliage the first year and then produces two-foot tall spikes of pendulous, funnel-shaped raspberry-pink flowers during late spring and early summer the second year. The Individual flowers resemble the snipped-off fingers of a glove, hence the common name. D. thapsi plants are similar to D. purpurea in general appearance, but are more compact. Instead of the cool humidity and wet woodlands that the more common D. purpurea prefers, this hybrid is specifically recommended for arid and unpredictable climates. Prefers moist, organically rich, acidic soils. As such, it was named a Plant Select winner in 1999.
‘Spanish Peaks’ should be planted in full sun to partial shade. While preferring loam soils, ‘Spanish Peaks’ will tolerate clay, too. Be sure to let the soil dry out a little between deep waterings. We planted ours in dry spots in our yard and the plants excelled. Deadheading encourages repeat blooms.
Although attractive to bees and hummingbirds, ‘Spanish Peaks’ is usually disliked by rabbits and deer.
Its best to direct sow seeds outdoors during late winter/early spring rains, however can easily be started indoors. They will self-sow and perpetuate themselves in the garden.
Digitalis makes long-lasting cut blooms, perfect for tall and impressive arrangements. The trick to getting the longest vase life from a foxglove flower is to get to it before the bees find it. When the flowers are pollinated they drop from the stems, so harvest early when just a few blossoms are open.
Type: Perennial
Sun exposure: Full shade to part sun
Mature height: 1-2 ft
Mature width: 10-12 inches
Hardiness zones: 4-9
