perennial

Excelsior Foxglove

Digitalis purpurea 'Excelsior Foxglove Mix'

The Story

Plant Bio

Biennial or short-lived perennial that produces tall spikes of tubular flowers.

A mix of colors with flowers held horizontally, providing a better view into the spotted throats.

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesDigitalis purpurea Excelsior Foxglove Mix adds vertical elegance with its tall, colorful flower spikes, perfect for shaded borders and naturalistic gardens.
Practical UsesProvides habitat and nectar for pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, supporting local ecosystems.
Ecological BenefitsAttracts beneficial insects, contributing to garden biodiversity and pest control.
SpeciesDigitalis purpureaFoxglove

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

54 inches

Width

24 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Consistent moisture

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Biennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

High

Planting

How to Grow

  1. Tuck seeds into moist, well-draining soil in early spring.
  2. Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
  3. Plant seedlings in a shaded or partially shaded location after the last frost.
  4. Water consistently to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
  5. Fertilize monthly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.
  6. Divide clumps every 2-3 years in early spring for vigorous growth.

Pro Tip

Use a shaded area with rich, well-draining soil for optimal growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
  • Mulch around plants to retain moisture
  • Remove spent flower spikes to encourage rebloom

Don't

  • Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
  • Don’t expose to harsh, direct midday sun in hot climates
  • Refrain from fertilizing in late fall

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Deadhead
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vertical garden feature with tall, purple spikesShaded woodland border for natural eleganceWildflower meadow accent for pollinator attraction

Companion Plants

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Excelsior Foxglove questions

What zones can Excelsior Foxglove grow in?

Excelsior 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 Excelsior Foxglove deer resistant?

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

When does Excelsior Foxglove bloom?

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

Does Excelsior Foxglove need full sun?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Excelsior 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.