* Seeds

Strawberry Foxglove (Digitalis × mertonensis) is one of the most beautiful and distinctive foxglove hybrids ever introduced, combining the vigor of the common foxglove with the rich coloring of rusty foxglove. Tall, stately flower spikes are covered with large, outward-facing, strawberry-rose blossoms that glow with warm coppery undertones and speckled throats. Blooming from late spring into early summer, this remarkable perennial creates an elegant vertical accent in the garden while attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its unique flower color, exceptional hardiness, and long bloom period have made Strawberry Foxglove a favorite among collectors and cottage gardeners alike.

Garden Uses:

Strawberry Foxglove is an excellent choice for perennial borders, cottage gardens, woodland edges, pollinator gardens, English-style landscapes, and naturalized plantings. The tall flower spikes blend beautifully with delphiniums, lupines, peonies, campanulas, salvia, Shasta daisies, ornamental grasses, and old-fashioned roses. They also make outstanding cut flowers, adding height and elegance to fresh floral arrangements.

Growing Information:

Sow seeds on the surface of moist growing medium, as light aids germination. Maintain temperatures between 65-70°F and keep evenly moist until germination, which generally occurs within 14-21 days. Plants thrive in full sun in cooler climates or light afternoon shade in warmer regions. Rich, moist, well-drained soil produces the strongest plants and tallest flower spikes. Water regularly during dry periods and remove spent flower stalks after blooming unless seed production or natural reseeding is desired. Plants often behave as short-lived perennials but may gently self-seed in favorable locations.

Pollinator Value:

The large tubular flowers are highly attractive to bumblebees, honeybees, native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Their extended flowering period provides abundant nectar throughout late spring and early summer, making Strawberry Foxglove one of the finest pollinator plants for partially shaded perennial gardens.

Natural Garden Benefits:

Strawberry Foxglove provides dramatic vertical structure while supporting a wide range of beneficial pollinating insects. Its sturdy flower spikes create lasting architectural interest, and the plants are generally resistant to browsing by deer and rabbits. Once established, they require little maintenance beyond occasional watering during extended dry spells.

Historical Significance:

Digitalis × mertonensis was developed at the famous John Innes Horticultural Institution in Merton, England, during the early twentieth century by crossing Digitalis purpurea with Digitalis ferruginea. The result was an exceptional hybrid that combined the large flowers of the common foxglove with the warm bronze and strawberry tones of the rusty foxglove. Today it remains one of the finest ornamental foxglove hybrids available.

Interesting Facts:

The species name "mertonensis" honors the Merton district of London where the hybrid was developed. Its unusual strawberry coloring is unlike that of any naturally occurring foxglove species, giving the flowers an almost velvety appearance. Like all foxgloves, every part of the plant contains naturally occurring cardiac glycosides and should never be consumed.

Seedman Notes:

Strawberry Foxglove is one of the most elegant foxgloves we offer and a personal favorite for cottage gardens. The soft strawberry-colored blooms are simply breathtaking when planted in groups, and the plants attract an incredible number of bumblebees throughout the blooming season. For gardeners seeking something beyond the traditional purple foxglove, this remarkable hybrid offers outstanding beauty and dependable performance.

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