Contents
Description
Digitalis Ferruginea, commonly known as Rusty Foxglove, is an herbaceous biennial plant that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It is native to southeastern Europe and grows up to 3-4 feet tall. The plant produces tall spikes of tubular flowers that bloom in shades of yellow to rusty-orange, making it a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Digitalis |
Appearance
The Rusty Foxglove has a rosette of basal leaves that are green and hairy. The leaves are lance-shaped, with a length of 6-12 inches and a width of 1-3 inches. The plant produces tall flower spikes that can reach up to 4 feet in height. The flowers are tubular and bloom in shades of yellow to rusty-orange, with dark spots on the inside of the petals. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and has a long blooming period of up to 6 weeks.
Care Guide
Water: Rusty Foxglove prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to leafy growth and fewer flowers.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
Sunlight: Rusty Foxglove prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate full shade, but it may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Rusty Foxglove is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites and aphids. It is also susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent pest infestations, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering.
Habitat
The Rusty Foxglove is native to southeastern Europe and can be found growing in woodland areas, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist and well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Rusty Foxglove toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant contains cardiac glycosides that can be toxic to pets if ingested.
Q: How often should I fertilize Rusty Foxglove?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Rusty Foxglove grow in full shade?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in full shade, but it may produce fewer flowers.
Q: When is the best time to plant Rusty Foxglove?
A: The best time to plant Rusty Foxglove is in early spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Digitalis purpurea
- Digitalis grandiflora
- Digitalis lanata
References
- “Digitalis Ferruginea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282089.
- “Digitalis Ferruginea.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/1148/Digitalis-Digitalis-ferruginea/.
- “Digitalis Ferruginea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18943/Digitalis-ferruginea/Details.
