Digitalis Parviflora

Description

Digitalis Parviflora, also known as Small-Flowered Foxglove, is a biennial or short-lived perennial plant that belongs to the Plantaginaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but it can also be found in other parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. This plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and produces spikes of small, tubular, pink or purple flowers that bloom from May to August. Its leaves are simple, lance-shaped, and covered in fine hairs.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Digitalis Parviflora has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other plants. Its spikes of small flowers are arranged in a panicle shape, and they can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers are pink or purple and have white or yellow spots inside. The leaves are alternate, simple, and lanceolate with a serrated margin. They are hairy on both sides and have a pointed tip. The stem is erect and covered in fine hairs. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and 30 cm in width.

Care Guide

Digitalis Parviflora is easy to care for and does not require much attention. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant: – Water: Digitalis Parviflora prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. – Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering. – Soil: Digitalis Parviflora prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. – Sunlight: Digitalis Parviflora prefers partial shade or full sun. It can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer flowers. – Hardiness Zones: Digitalis Parviflora is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -15°C.

Common Pests & Diseases

Digitalis Parviflora is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by some common pests and diseases, such as: – Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause distortion and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them. – Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use slug pellets or copper tape to keep them away. – Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Use a fungicide to treat it.

Habitat

Digitalis Parviflora is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry, rocky, and sunny habitats. It can also be found in other parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, where it grows in meadows, forest edges, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought and heat.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Digitalis Parviflora toxic?

A: Yes, Digitalis Parviflora is toxic if ingested. It contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat.

Q: Can Digitalis Parviflora be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Digitalis Parviflora can be grown in containers as long as they are deep enough to accommodate its long taproot.

Q: How can I propagate Digitalis Parviflora?

A: You can propagate Digitalis Parviflora by collecting its seeds in late summer and sowing them in a well-drained soil. You can also divide the plant in early spring or autumn.

Q: How often should I fertilize Digitalis Parviflora?

A: You should fertilize Digitalis Parviflora once a month during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer.

Related Plants

– Digitalis Purpurea- Digitalis Lanata- Digitalis Ferruginea- Digitalis Grandiflora- Digitalis Obscura

References

– “Digitalis Parviflora.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287730.- “Digitalis Parviflora.” Plants for a Future. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Digitalis+parviflora.- “Digitalis Parviflora.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19211/i-Digitalis-parviflora-i/Details.