Digitalis purpurea 'Giant Shirley'
perennial

Giant Shirley Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea 'Giant Shirley'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

60 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Biennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Yes

The Story

Plant Bio

Giant Shirley is known for its tall spikes of showy pink flowers and its biennial or short-lived perennial nature. Distinctive for its substantial flower size and height, making it a standout in any flower garden.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDigitalis purpurea 'Giant Shirley' provides striking vertical interest with its tall spikes of purple flowers, ideal for garden borders and wildlife gardens.
Practical UsesIts nectar-rich flowers attract pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.
Ecological BenefitsServes as a host plant for certain butterfly species and enhances biodiversity.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds lightly into moist soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
  3. Provide full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
  4. Water consistently, keeping soil moist but not soggy.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced fertilizer during growing season.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring or fall.

Pro Tip

Use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Fertilize during active growth

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Do not disturb roots during flowering
  • Never let soil dry out completely

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Plant
Propagate
Spring Cleanup
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall purple border plantsVertical accent in flower bedsWildflower meadow accent

Companion Plants

Lavender Echinacea Salvia Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Giant Shirley Foxglove questions

What zones can Giant Shirley Foxglove grow in?

Giant Shirley Foxglove is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Giant Shirley Foxglove deer resistant?

Yes — Giant Shirley Foxglove is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Giant Shirley Foxglove bloom?

Giant Shirley Foxglove typically blooms in late spring to early summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Giant Shirley Foxglove need full sun?

Giant Shirley Foxglove does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Keep exploring

Grow Giant Shirley Foxglove with confidence

See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.

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