Species

Digitalis purpureaFoxglove

17 other cultivars

perennial

Foxglove Sugar Plum

Digitalis purpurea 'Sugar Plum'

The Story

Plant Bio

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

The 'Sugar Plum' cultivar is noted for its soft pink, almost plum-colored flowers and a more compact growth habit compared to standard Digitalis purpurea.

Uses & Benefits:

Digitalis purpurea 'Sugar Plum' provides striking violet blooms that add vertical interest to perennial borders and cottage gardens.

Its tall flower spikes attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, supporting garden ecology.

Serves as a nectar source for beneficial insects and pollinators, contributing to local biodiversity.

SpeciesDigitalis purpureaFoxglove

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Perennial

Height

36 inches

Width

12 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average

Lifespan

Biennial

Native To

Europe

Toxicity

Highly toxic if ingested

Bloom period

Late spring – Early summer

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring for best germination.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity and encourage rooting.
Transplant seedlings when they are 4-6 inches tall, after the last frost.
Water deeply once a week during dry spells to promote healthy growth.
Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support blooming.
Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Use seed-starting trays for easier control of germination conditions and early growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist 🌱
Prune back spent flowers to encourage more blooms
Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature

Don't

Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
Do not allow soil to dry out completely
Refrain from fertilizing late in the season
Avoid planting in areas with heavy clay soil

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Deadhead
Plant
Stake

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Tall, violet‑flowered borderWildflower meadow accentPart shade perennial bed

Companion Plants

Salvia Echinacea Rudbeckia Coreopsis Gaillardia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Foxglove Sugar Plum questions

What zones can Foxglove Sugar Plum grow in?

Foxglove Sugar Plum 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 Foxglove Sugar Plum deer resistant?

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

When does Foxglove Sugar Plum bloom?

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

Does Foxglove Sugar Plum need full sun?

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